Paramount Condemns Hollywood Celebrity Action Condemns Israel's Film Institute

Paramount logo (Paramount)

JAKARTA - Paramount production house released a statement after more than 3500 filmmakers signed a petition not to work with Israeli film institutions. They regretted that the boycott was carried out and perpetuated by creators to Hollywood celebrities.

"At Paramount, we believe the power of the story to connect and inspire people, promote equal understanding and explain the moments, ideas and stories that shape the world that we share. This is our creative mission," said Melissa Zuberman Chief of Paramount on Saturday, September 13.

"We do not agree with the boycott attempt of Israeli filmmakers. Silence of artists individually based on nationalism they do not promote a better understanding or increase peace," he continued.

Paramount became the first production house to open up about this issue. The petition made by the Film Workers for Palestine was signed by more than 3500 film actors ranging from actors and actresses to directors and others.

In the petition, they declared not to work with Israeli film companies or institutes that support genocide and torture Palestinians.

Initially, this petition was signed by 1200 people, some of whom were directors of Yoorgos Lanthimos, Adam McKay, Joshua Oppenheimer and actors such as Olivia Colman, Ayo Edendari, Mark Ruffalo, Riz Ahmed, Lily Gladstone, Emma Stone, and others.

On Wednesday, September 10, this petition was signed by 3900 people with several new names, namely Andrew Garfield, Nicola Coughlan, Harris Dickinson, Jonathan Glazer, Elliot Page, Joaquin Phoenix, Rooney Mara and others.

The pair of actors Phoenix and Mara are also producers of the film The Voice of Hind Rajab and show their partiality by using the Palestinian flag pin while attending the premiere of the film.