Oscar-Winning Actor Javier Bardem in Talks to Star in Alma Har'el's New Film

Oscar-winning Spanish actor Javier Bardem, known for his prominent pro-Palestinian stance in Hollywood, is reportedly in negotiations to star in a new feature film by Israeli-American director Alma Har'el. The project, titled "Wet," is described as an original family drama reminiscent of HBO's "Succession" and the Oscar-nominated film "Triangle of Sadness" from 2022. While Bardem is considering joining the film, no formal agreements have been signed yet.

This potential collaboration is notable given Bardem's outspoken criticism of Israel within the film industry. In September of the previous year, Bardem signed a petition pledging not to work with Israeli film institutions accused of involvement in "genocide and apartheid against the Palestinian people." However, in a CNN interview, he clarified that the boycott targets organizations and companies, not individuals based on nationality, religion, or gender.

Sources indicate that Bardem and Har'el have found a shared creative language despite their differing backgrounds. Har'el, who gained international acclaim with her 2019 debut narrative film "Honey Boy," starring Shia LaBeouf, has since directed the Apple TV+ drama "Lady in the Lake," featuring Natalie Portman. Neither Har'el nor their Hollywood agency WME has commented on the reports so far.

The film "Wet" marks Har'el's next major project after years of building her reputation in indie documentary and narrative cinema, and Bardem's involvement would add significant star power to the production. The collaboration highlights a complex intersection of art and politics within the global film community.