Story perspectives

Portman Calls Out Oscar Gender Gap and DHS Violence

1/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Natalie Portman, an actress, at Sundance, expressed disappointment over the lack of female-directed films among the 2026 Oscars' Best Picture nominees.
She noted Chloé Zhao's Hamnet is the only woman-directed film among the nominees.
Portman urged greater acknowledgment after noting many top films this year were directed by women.
She also condemned violence by Department of Homeland Security agents, linking it to broader societal issues.

History

Historical Context

The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) was passed by Congress in 1972 to eliminate gender discrimination, supported by organizations like the National Organization for Women. Despite progress, disparities persist, as highlighted by Natalie Portman's remarks at Sundance regarding the film industry, where only one woman-directed film, Chloé Zhao's *Hamnet*, was nominated for Best Picture at the 2026 Oscars, emphasizing the ongoing need for systemic change.

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Story summary

Natalie Portman, an actress, at Sundance, expressed disappointment over the lack of female-directed films among the 2026 Oscars' Best Picture nominees.
She noted Chloé Zhao's Hamnet is the only woman-directed film among the nominees.
Portman urged greater acknowledgment after noting many top films this year were directed by women.
She also condemned violence by Department of Homeland Security agents, linking it to broader societal issues.

1 / 2