Cate Blanchett is a guest in Poland this month, where she will be head of the jury at the prestigious Camerimage festival. The event is known for paying special attention to the achievements of women behind the camera, and was recently in the news due to a planned screening of the much-discussed film Rust. As if that western with Alec Baldwin didn’t cause enough controversy, there is now also a riot following a column by the Polish founder.
Much-discussed column
In the piece that Marek Zydowicz wrote for the Cinematography World Magazinehe discussed the relationship between the proportion of female cinematographers and the quality of their work. Zydowicz, who is also active as a film producer, fears that if the Camerimage festival forcibly makes room for productions in which female cinematographers have been involved, this will lead to an influx of “mediocre projects” and “(male) artists who have made extraordinary contributions outside the boat is in danger of falling.”
Cancellation McQueen
The column led to a stream of critical reactions. The British Society for Cinematographers wrote the producer an open letter pointing out his “misogynistic comments” and his “aggressive tone”. Director Steve McQueen even decided not to travel to the festival this week. He would be present on opening night for a screening of his new film Blitz (2024) to attend:
I have enormous respect for cinematographers of all genders, including women. We need to do more to make room at the table so everyone can join
In response to the accusations, Zydowicz said that Camerimage always stands for the best film productions, regardless of who makes them. He found the reactions to his column inappropriately fierce.
Jurystatement
Cate Blanchett will resume her planned duties as head of the professional jury later this week. Fellow judges Anna Higgs and Sandy Powell posted a statement in response to the controversy in which they indicate that they welcome discussions about gender representation. “We look forward to speaking to our peers on these types of topics (…) excellent contributions should be visible throughout the industry,” it reads. The Camerimage festival lasts from November 16 to 23.
Image: Photo via depositphotos
