Javier Bardem to Star in Israeli Director Alma Har'el's Film Despite Boycott Stance
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS French by baba
Actor Javier Bardem, a vocal critic of Israel and supporter of boycotts, will star in "Wet," a new film by Israeli director Alma Har'el. The unexpected casting contrasts with Bardem's past activism. The film, also featuring Rebecca Ferguson and Rosalía, is set to shoot in 2027 and explores family dynamics on a yacht. Har'el is an acclaimed director known for "Bombay Beach" and "Honey Boy."
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Javier Bardem will star in Israeli director Alma Har'el's film "Wet," contrasting his boycott stance.
- Bardem previously signed an appeal to boycott Israeli film institutions over alleged war crimes.
- The film "Wet" will also feature Rebecca Ferguson, Connor Storrie, Odessa A'zion, Lukas Haas, and Rosalía.
- Filming for "Wet" is scheduled for 2027, with Lionsgate handling North American and UK distribution.
- Alma Har'el is known for directing "Bombay Beach," "Honey Boy," and "Lady in the Lake."
Spanish actor Javier Bardem, known for his strong anti-Israel stance and support for boycotting the Israeli film industry, is set to star in a new film by Israeli director Alma Har'el. This collaboration is seen as unexpected given Bardem's public commitments, including signing an appeal to boycott Israeli film institutions and companies accused of complicity in war crimes, genocide, and apartheid against Palestinians. Bardem has also publicly shown solidarity with Palestinians, often wearing a keffiyeh.
The film, titled "Wet," will feature Bardem alongside a notable cast including Rebecca Ferguson, Connor Storrie, Odessa A'zion, Lukas Haas, and singer Rosalía. Har'el, who was born in Rehovot, Israel, will direct the project, which is scheduled to begin filming in 2027. Lionsgate has secured the North American and UK distribution rights.
Written by Har'el and Christian Stangeby, "Wet" is described as a dark comedy and social satire set on a luxury yacht, exploring themes of power dynamics, wealth, and family rivalries. The film's tone and subject matter have drawn comparisons to "Succession" and "Triangle of Sadness."
Alma Har'el, 51, has established herself in Hollywood with previous works such as the documentary "Bombay Beach," for which she won an award at the Tribeca Film Festival, and "Honey Boy," inspired by Shia LaBeouf's childhood. She also directed the 2024 Apple TV+ series "Lady in the Lake" starring Natalie Portman.
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