The Substance Director Coralie Fargeat Withdraws From Camerimage Film Festival Following Event Director’s ‘Misogynistic’ Remarks

As a dedicated follower of women’s rights and a passionate supporter of female filmmakers, I stand firmly behind Coralie Fargeat’s decision to withdraw her remarkable film “The Substance” from the Camerimage film festival. It is disheartening to see such regressive views expressed by Marek Żydowicz, especially in today’s progressive society.


Due to a series of contentious comments made by the Camerimage film festival director, Marek Żydowicz, concerning female cinematographers, Coralie Fargeat, the director and writer of the critically-acclaimed movie The Substance, has decided not to participate in this year’s festival.

According to a social media message posted by the French filmmaker, Fargeat expressed her surprise and disappointment, while also announcing that her film would not be participating in the previously mentioned film festival.

On Instagram, Coralie Fargeat expressed that she’s withdrawing her film “The Substance” from the Camerimage Film Festival, following the director’s use of highly disrespectful and offensive language towards women. Additionally, Benjamin Kračun, the cinematographer of her latest project, has also chosen to opt out of participating in this event due to similar reasons.

According to Fargeat, the film under consideration explores precisely those effects we see worldwide. She further stated that such comments should no longer be endured.

Coralie Fargeat expressed her backing for everyone participating in the festival, expressing hope that this choice contributes significantly to bringing about a long-overdue transformation.

Recently, Marek Żydowicz, the director and CEO of Camerimage Film Festival, found himself in a whirlwind of discussions due to remarks he made in an article that appeared in the November edition of Cinematography World magazine.

The CEO expressed concern that increasing the number of women in cinematography and directing roles at the specified film festival might lead to “average quality” filmmaking. Furthermore, he noted that such a change could potentially impact the work and talents of those with exceptional artistic accomplishments.

Intrigued by his thoughts, I pondered over Żydowicz’s question: “Should we discard the cherished and respected, merely to foster societal transformation?” It resonated deeply within me as an obsessed fan.

Speaking about other film events like Cannes, Berlin, and Venice, he emphasized that Camerimage continues to prioritize “artistic principles above all else when it comes to selecting and advocating for films as works of art.

As a die-hard admirer, I can’t help but notice that it wasn’t just Coralie Fargeat who shied away from the festival; organizations like Women in Cinematography, the British Society of Cinematographers, the American Society of Cinematographers, and the International Cinematographers Guild have all weighed in on Żydowicz’s remarks.

Later on, I clarified my statement to BSC, explaining that my words might have been misunderstood. I want to make it clear that I hold strong respect for women’s rights and stand by their side during challenging moments.

The Substance stars Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid.

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2024-11-16 12:22