Demi Moore‍ connects U.S. election themes with new film “The Substance”

Bringing bold narratives to Paris

While in Paris for‌ the French premiere of “The ⁢Substance” and to receive a career tribute ‍at the French Cinematheque, ‍Demi Moore made poignant connections between the film’s⁢ themes and the current U.S. election. The Hollywood icon’s reflections on America’s foundations ​and societal taboos resonated deeply with the audience.

Critique of American roots

“America is built on ⁣Puritans, religious fanatics, and criminals,” Moore remarked‌ from the stage, pointing out how these roots are⁣ still evident in the contemporary political landscape. Her words not only ⁣provoked thought‌ but also set the tone for a critical⁤ examination of‍ the ‍cultural underpinnings spotlighted in “The Substance.”

Exploring European vs. American⁢ sensibilities

In her speech, Moore highlighted⁣ the difference between European and American sensibilities, especially concerning ⁢body and sexuality. According to her,⁣ “Sexuality is always taboo” in America, a ​notion that‌ the film deliberately challenges. She elaborated,⁣ “There’s a lot of‍ fear in America around ⁤the body…I’ve never understood that fear ‍of the ⁤body. It never made sense why we can celebrate the body in art, ⁣but fear it ⁣in cinema.”

Shattering taboos with “The Substance”

Moore ‍and the film’s director, Coralie Fargeat, pushed boundaries to confront these taboos head-on. Their aim was to present a bold narrative that casts societal fears ‍and taboos‌ into stark, fluorescent ⁤light. Moore explained:

“When we choose⁣ to hide ourselves, when we fear being seen, we create isolation, and‌ that creates loneliness. There⁣ is greater liberation when you are willing to allow others ⁣to see you in ⁣all parts, not just the parts you want them to see.”

This profound statement underscores the​ film’s mission to foster openness and acceptance by challenging long-held fears and biases.

Embracing​ imperfections

Demi ⁤Moore also spoke candidly about aging and the industry’s ‌often harsh beauty‍ standards. “Being someone of a certain ⁤age,” she shared, “there was greater value​ in⁤ showing oneself with ⁤complete ⁢abandon. Being willing to be seen with flaws and imperfections, clearly not 20 or 30 years old, ‍being a little bit more⁢ ‘loosely wrapped.'”

Her words ⁢reflect a desire for authentic representation and celebrate diversity in all its forms.

Addressing⁢ self-imposed‌ violence

The actress also⁤ touched on a poignant theme in “The Substance”—the self-imposed violence many individuals inflict on themselves due to unrealistic ⁢societal expectations. She noted that this theme had “never really been explored” in cinema, making the film’s ⁤exploration risky ‍but necessary. “Personally, it certainly pushed me out of my comfort zone.”

A unique perspective from the director

Moore emphasized Fargeat’s unique directorial perspective, noting that while a man could direct such a film, the screenplay’s depth likely demanded‍ a woman’s touch. ​ “I’ve been asked,⁤ could a man have directed this? And yes, maybe a man could, but ⁣I⁣ don’t think a ‌man could have⁣ written it,” she observed.

Pioneering voices in cinema

Fargeat’s innovative approach is ⁣evident in her visual and symbolic style,⁣ and the way she utilized sound. This distinctive approach has‌ been a breath of fresh air in an industry‌ where female perspectives are often underrepresented. “This is ‍such a personal exploration,” Moore noted, adding how much more needs to⁣ be done to normalize ‍women’s artistic contributions. “I want us to quit being surprised [about women’s potential].”

The filmmaker’s perspective

Coralie Fargeat echoed these sentiments, expressing how “The Substance” delves deeply into ⁤personal experiences regarding body image​ and societal expectations. The film serves as an intimate reflection of her journey through the lens ⁣of the #MeToo movement and a time of significant cultural upheaval. “The film‍ is totally personal,” ​Fargeat shared. “It is really what I have lived my​ own life regarding body image and the expectations of‍ what it is to be a good woman.”

Hope for the future

Reflecting on the future, Fargeat expressed hope for ⁣a societal shift that celebrates ⁢women’s rights and rejects regressive norms.⁤ “The film was a big ‘fuck you,’ that’s for sure,” she commented, highlighting her desire for lasting change. Despite the challenges, Fargeat remains committed ⁣to her vision: “I’m trying to do what I can with my films!”

For‌ those interested‌ in exploring the themes and style of “The Substance,” visit ⁤ https://trailers.movieetv.com/search/the-substance.

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