Hillary Clinton once said: “Never stop believing that fighting for what’s right is worth it.” This quote explains quite well the recent discussion taking place in Hollywood about the sexual harassment cases that have recently surfaced. Producer Harvey Weinstein and actor Kevin Spacey are some of the many men accused of committing sexual assault and rape. Recently, the lead star of the Wonder Woman film, Gal Gadot, expressed that she will not be portraying her character in the movie’s sequel if filmmaker Brett Ratner is part of the film’s creative team. Ratner, who helped produce Wonder Woman earlier this year, was accused of sexual misconduct by several women.
(Photo Credit: Warner Bros.)
Fans of the film have either criticized or supported Gadot’s decision to leave the franchise if Ratner remains. Many have questioned if this is an extreme decision on behalf of the actress. When I heard the news, shock and sadness took over. How could this new brilliant version of the classic DC Comics be shot without its leading star? However, despite my current emotions, I completely understood her. We are living in a time where unity is the most important thing. Women and men need to stand together to prevent these disastrous and unfortunate situations. This year we have seen this more than ever and how fighting for what’s right does make a difference. If this is what needs to be done in order for the strong message of promoting respect to reach society, then so be it. Turning away a financially big and career-promising project in order to convey a message is as close to her character of Wonder Woman as she can get. If she didn’t state her opinions and decisions regarding a possible second film that would require Ratner’s participation, fans of the sequel would probably not have known about the allegations made against him. If she hadn’t stood up against him in a way that would inevitably affect his career, in support of the six other women who denounced him, who would have? Gadot had the bravery to speak up and remain firm in her decision – a decision that probably saddened millions; however, it serves as an example for future generations to fight or speak up against injustice.
(Photo Credit: Clay Enos)
Gal Gadot also made the right decision in threatening her participation in the sequel, because she was honoring the film’s achievement in breaking female stereotypes in Hollywood. Wonder Woman became the highest grossing live-action film directed by a female. Director Patty Jenkins broke barriers by showing a superhero whom people didn’t admire based solely on physical appearance, but rather on personality and dedication. Throughout the entire film, women were seen and portrayed as incredibly strong and equal to their male peers. The point in mentioning all of this, is to focus on the fact that Gal Gadot is honoring the film and the creative geniuses behind it. If she ends up not doing the second movie it would not be the same, but it shows the dedication and love felt toward this character and females in general.
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