The question of diversity that made actor Mads Mikkelsen uncomfortable and his response on “The Promised Land” (Twitter: @THR)
Mads MikkelsenThe protagonist of the film “The Promised Land” experienced an unpleasant moment with the director of the film Nikolay Arcel during a press conference.
A Danish journalist present in the room asked a question about this Diversity in the cast of the production, which consists mainly of people from white race.
“It is a Danish production and exclusively Nordic cast and therefore, it lacks some variety, it could be said. There are new rules in Hollywood…” he said, referring to the industry’s new law that determines which productions receive nominations Best Film at the Oscars They must meet certain requirements.
The journalist pointed out that the film could be excluded from the Best Picture category due to the lack of diversity at the Oscars.
The new standards for representation and inclusion set by the Academy Committee last May require that at least one of the major actors – or major supporting roles – or 30% of the total supporting roles must be from an underrepresented racial or ethnic group. This only applies to films nominated for Best Picture.
This new criterion will come into force next year – so it applies to the film shown this year – and is intended to promote equality and diversity on and off the screen.
The question surprised the actor, who could not hide it with his face and interrupted the journalist: “Where are you going?”.
“It’s not for artistic reasons, but rather a lack of diversity…” Are you worried (that I won’t be able to participate in this price category)?“, insisted the journalist, who once again encountered a caustic reaction from the actor: “Are you worried? They’re targeting us, so answer the question.”.
Arcel stated that minorities will be included as far as history allows (Portal)
The director immediately intervened and spoke. Arcel explained why the majority of the cast is white, although he noted this Minorities are also included if history allows..
“We have a Great storyline about a black girl facing racism. Probably back then was the only (colored person) in all of Denmark“, he explained, adding: “We didn’t think about that…” I think it would be a little strange, that’s how it was in the 1750s.”.
“The Promised Land” is a historical drama based on the novel “The Captain and Ann Barbara” by Ida Jessen and inspired by Captain Ludvig Kahlen, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival on August 31st.
Mikkelsen plays an army captain Century XVIII struggling to improve its social status and maintain its values in an increasingly hostile climate.
Promised Land Trailer
That is why the characters who accompany him are predominantly white, although, as the director explained, there was a minority corresponding to the time.
Actors who are part of this production include Amanda Collin, Simon Bennebjerg, Melina Hagberg and Kristine Kujath.