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Ariela Barer Takes Over Deep Cuts Amid Casting Controversy

2/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ariela Barer (the actress) will replace Odessa A’zion in A24’s Deep Cuts after backlash over casting Zoe Gutierrez.
Zoe Gutierrez is described as half-Mexican and half-Jewish in Holly Brickley’s novel.
Odessa A’zion, Jewish but not Latina, said she hadn’t read the book before accepting and announced departure on Instagram.
The film is directed by Sean Durkin and is set to begin production soon.

History

Historical Context

The #OscarsSoWhite movement emerged in 2015, spotlighting Hollywood's racial disparities, with only 8% of nominees being people of color. This issue reflects broader trends of whitewashing in casting, where white actors often portray non-white characters, as seen in A24’s Deep Cuts. The ongoing scrutiny of ethnic representation continues to influence industry practices and audience expectations for diversity.

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Story summary

Ariela Barer (the actress) will replace Odessa A’zion in A24’s Deep Cuts after backlash over casting Zoe Gutierrez.
Zoe Gutierrez is described as half-Mexican and half-Jewish in Holly Brickley’s novel.
Odessa A’zion, Jewish but not Latina, said she hadn’t read the book before accepting and announced departure on Instagram.
The film is directed by Sean Durkin and is set to begin production soon.

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