Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.What now?
Polanski made tedious comments about women at the Cannes Film Festival. According to USA Today, the 79-year-old said “trying to level the genders is purely idiotic”, adding: “Offering flowers to a lady has become indecent … The pill has greatly changed the place of women in our times, masculinising her.”
Yawn.
Hold up! It seems he may in fact be pioneering this year’s hot new Cannes theme: misogyny. After Lars von Triers made Hitler apologia the offensive fad of 2012’s event, boring old blokes talking down to women seems to be all the rage. Director Francois Ozon said women fantastise about being prostitutes while Jerry Lewis says the idea of women doing broad comedy “bothers” him.
So liberation is masculinising?
It would seem that’s what he’s trying to say. But you have to remember, he’s a rather complicated gentleman. His pregnant wife, Sharon Tate, was murdered by Charles Manson and members of his cult. Then, in 1977, he was arrested and charged with having sexual intercourse with a 13-year-old girl, which he later admitted as part of a plea bargain
How come he’s never done time – and we’re still watching his films?
Hm. He’s a bloke with a vision? And in Hollywood, that can wash away many a sin.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments