Here’s what you need to know:
- Actor Pedro Pascal called on Hollywood to resist political pressure and keep telling important stories.
- He admitted it’s scary to speak out against former U.S. President Donald Trump but emphasized the importance of courage.
- Pascal shared his personal story as an immigrant and refugee, criticizing Trump’s hardline immigration policies.
- His new film, Eddington, directed by Ari Aster, tackles America’s toxic politics and societal divisions.
- The movie, starring Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival.
Pedro Pascal: “F— the People Who Try to Scare You”
At the Cannes Film Festival, Pedro Pascal, known for roles in The Last of Us and Narcos, delivered a bold message to Hollywood. He urged the film industry to resist fear and keep telling stories that matter, even when it’s hard.
Pascal, who was born in Chile and grew up as an immigrant in the U.S., opened up about his personal connection to the issue of immigration. “I’m an immigrant,” he said. “My parents were refugees from Chile. We fled a dictatorship, and I was privileged enough to grow up in the U.S. after asylum in Denmark. I stand by those protections.”
He expressed that it’s “very scary” for actors to speak out on politicized issues like immigration, especially when criticized by powerful figures like Donald Trump. However, he believes it’s crucial to stand up for what’s right. “Keep telling the stories, keep expressing yourself, and keep fighting to be who you are,” he said.
A New Film Takes on America’s Toxic Politics
Pascal’s latest project, Eddington, couldn’t be more timely. The film, directed by horror master Ari Aster, is a dark satire that dives into America’s divisive politics during the Covid pandemic. Set in New Mexico, it explores themes of conspiracy theories, polarization, and societal breakdown.
The movie doesn’t hold back, parodying everything from gun-loving conservatives to self-righteous activists. Joaquin Phoenix plays the lead, while Emma Stone stars as his wife, who gets drawn into a dark world of right-wing conspiracies.
Aster, known for his intense horror films, said he’s worried about the direction America is heading. “It feels like nothing is being done to temper the furies right now,” he said. He fears the country’s growing polarization and mistrust in the media could lead to violence.
A Call to Courage in Hollywood
Pascal and Aster aren’t the only ones speaking out. Legendary actor Robert De Niro, who received a lifetime achievement award at Cannes, also criticized America’s “philistine president” and urged the film industry to resist political pressure.
For Pascal, the solution is clear: keep telling stories that challenge the status quo. “F— the people that try to make you scared,” he said. “And fight back. This is the perfect way to do so in telling stories. And don’t let them win.”
Eddington is more than just a film—it’s a call to action for Hollywood and audiences alike. By confronting uncomfortable truths and sparking tough conversations, it reminds us why storytelling matters in turbulent times.
The Bottom Line
Pedro Pascal’s powerful message at Cannes is a reminder that Hollywood has the power to inspire change. With films like Eddington, creators are challenging audiences to think critically about the world we live in. As Pascal said, it’s time to stand up, tell our stories, and fight for what’s right—no matter how scary it gets.