Demi Moore on the U.S. Election: ‘America Is Built on Puritans, Religious Fanatics and Criminals’

As a lifelong admirer of Demi Moore, her recent insights at the French Cinematheque during the premiere of “The Substance” resonated deeply with me. Her ability to connect the themes of the film with the current state of American politics is truly remarkable. It’s clear that she’s not just an actress, but a thoughtful and insightful individual who isn’t afraid to challenge societal norms.

During my trip to Paris for the premiere of “The Substance” and to receive a career tribute at the French Cinematheque, I connected Coralie Fargeat’s daring body horror film to the underlying themes that have captured everyone’s attention in the heated U.S. election race.

She stated from the French Cinematheque’s stage on Tuesday that America has roots in Puritans, zealous religious figures, and lawbreakers. Remarkably, this seems to be echoed in our current election process.

Certainly, this iconic figure from Hollywood clearly differentiated between the thoughtful approach that influenced “The Substance,” which came from Europe, and the dominant mindset that the film aimed to challenge.

She went on to say, ‘Sexuality has always been a forbidden topic.’ There’s a great deal of apprehension towards the human body in America, which I’ve never managed to comprehend or resonate with. In some of the movies I’ve starred in, I’ve definitely challenged societal norms, and this is partly due to my inability to grasp that fear of the body. It has always seemed illogical to me why we can appreciate the body in art forms, yet fear it on screen.

Through their successful film, Moore and the director-writer of “The Substance,” Fargeat, aimed to break down longstanding taboos by illuminating these themes in vivid, harsh light.

Moore stated that when we opt to conceal ourselves, out of fear of being exposed, it leads to isolation, and this, in turn, breeds loneliness. However, there’s a greater sense of freedom when you’re prepared to let others observe all aspects of you, not just the ones you wish them to see.

As an individual of a certain maturity,” she explained further, “there was a greater emphasis on expressing oneself freely and openly. It was important to be visible with our flaws and imperfections, demonstrating that we are not in our twenties or thirties anymore, embracing a less restrained, more relaxed demeanor.

She remarked that what struck her was the severity with which one can treat oneself. This self-inflicted harshness, a theme she felt hadn’t been delved into much before. It was daring and intimidating. On a personal level, it undoubtedly took her beyond her usual comfort zone.

Although “The Substance” tackles its themes with a generous dose of violence and gore, Moore aimed to highlight the unique viewpoint of the director.

Moore stated, ‘Could a man lead or have led this?’ My response is affirmative, a man might be capable, but I strongly believe that a man couldn’t have authored it.

She remarked, “This is a deeply personal journey.” If some viewers found Fargeat’s visual approach, symbolism, and use of sound surprising, it’s simply because women haven’t had the opportunity to fully express themselves in this way until now.

“I want us to quit being surprised [about women’s potential]” Moore added, to great applause.

The filmmaker echoed those sentiments shortly thereafter.

Demi Moore on the U.S. Election: ‘America Is Built on Puritans, Religious Fanatics and Criminals’

In an interview with EbMaster, Fargeat shared that the movie is deeply personal for her. It reflects her own experiences with body image, societal expectations of what makes a good woman, and the pressures around appearance and behavior. Essentially, it’s a highly personal exploration of how these issues have shaped her as a whole.

As a film critic, I’m thrilled to share my thoughts on “The Substance,” a movie that emerged significantly from the aftermath of the #MeToo movement in 2016. In contrast to the somber and introspective tone of its predecessor, director Fargeat aims to craft her next masterpiece in an optimistic and evolving social landscape.

She stated that the movie was undeniably a strong statement, indeed. I fervently hope that we’ll transition into a realm of optimism, where women’s rights are revered. Regrettably, the film’s theme may still be relevant in another decade, half a century, or more, unless there’s a genuine change.

She mentioned that it’s currently beyond her control, considering the “secure environment” provided by the Paris Cinematheque tribute.

“But I’m trying to do what I can with my films!”

2024-11-06 05:47

Demi Moore on the U.S. Election: ‘America Is Built on Puritans, Religious Fanatics and Criminals’

Read More

Minority Mindset