Cate Blanchett has found herself at the center of controversy following comments she made earlier this year, when she described herself as 'middle class.' The Australian actor, known for her prominent role as Galadriel in the iconic The Lord of the Rings trilogy, triggered backlash during her advocacy work for the United Nations High Commission for Refugees. Critics argued it was absurd for Blanchett, one of Hollywood's highest-paid actors, to identify as middle class.
During the Cannes Film Festival press conference, she stated, “I’m white, I’m privileged, I’m middle class, and I think, you know, one can be accused of having a bit of a white saviour complex.” While her intentions may have been sincere, the reaction on social media was swift and unforgiving, with many questioning her perspective on class.
Blanchett recently spoke about the uproar during an interview with The Telegraph. When questioned about the backlash, she responded dismissively, “Oh, did they?” with what the interviewer characterized as a 'disdainful moue'. Director Guy Maddin, who was accompanying Blanchett, attempted to clarify her position, saying, “You were using the standard British definition of middle class,” explaining it represented those above the poverty line yet below the ultra-wealthy.
Blanchett continued to elaborate, saying, “And maybe middle class is about outlook,” emphasizing her belief is rooted more in perspective than financial status. “But, anyway, I’m sorry if I offended anyone,” she added, acknowledging the sensitivity surrounding her comments.
Beyond the controversy, Blanchett is also promoting her new film, Rumours, which presents another perspective on power and leadership. Set to release theatrically in the UK and Ireland on 6 December, the film features Blanchett as Hilda Ortmann, the Chancellor of Germany, along with notable co-stars Alicia Vikander and Charles Dance.
When asked if her character was based on real-life German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Blanchett clarified the character had no direct parallels with any specific leader. “There are so few examples of female leaders,” she remarked, underscoring the unique challenge of portraying such roles. The filmmakers aimed to steer clear of connections to real leaders, focusing on the narrative at hand.
Rumours is described as a horror-comedy, illustrating the absurdities of leadership and the incompetence often associated with power. The plot involves seven leaders lost within the woods following a G7 Summit, facing surreal obstacles as they grapple with their chaotic situation. The film's synopsis points out how these 'leaders' devolve, becoming spectacles of incompetence as they confront the loss of their authoritative footing.
The thematic underpinnings of Rumours address the absurdity of institutional failure and power struggles, encapsulating the ideas of disconnection and comedic tragedy within governance. It reflects upon modern societal conflicts by showcasing leaders navigated by explicit absurdities—a timely commentary as global tensions continue to run high.
Critics have already begun to express anticipation for the film, emphasizing its exploration of leadership through the lens of dark comedy. With Blanchett’s performance likely to be at the forefront, the film is poised to draw attention both for its content and the conversations surrounding the actress’ recent remarks.
While Blanchett's comments may continue to spark debate, her commitment to advocating for refugee issues remains clear. It's been noted how her work has shifted her perspective on global crises, granting her insights she feels compelled to share through both activism and her roles within film.
Blanchett's dual engagement as both an actress and advocate continues to blur lines within public perception, proving once more how entertainment intersects with pressing social issues. Rumours may yet become the platform for Blanchett to transform her recent controversy from critique to conversation, reflecting her experience as both celebrated artist and conscientious citizen.
