The Academy Speaks Out on Behalf of Filmmakers
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger
The turmoil in the world today is affecting many industries and many walks of life.
Recently in September of this year, the Iranian government arrested six independent filmmakers for allegedly working with the BBC. But what were the charges? Espionage and treason. Within Iran itself Iranian filmmakers were extremely angered by this action. Two of the filmmakers were later released, however, all six were denied access to the lawyers and their families. Not only were these six arrested but one director, Jafar Panahi, was put under house arrest and one actress, Marzieh Vafamehr, sentenced to one year in prison and 90 lashes.
Many large entertainment organizations are coming together to speak out in retaliation and ask for the imprisoned to be immediately released.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences whose representation spans the globe, feels this action is unjust and uncalled for. These artists deserve the freedom of expression and they are exercising their rights and the location where they choose to do this should not matter. The Academy is calling for the filmmakers safety, release and return to filmmaking.
The Academy is being joined by the Board of Directors of American Cinema Editors, Board of Governors of the American Society of Cinematographers, Directors Guild of America, International Documentary Association, Producers Guild of America, Screen Actors Guild and the Writers Guilds of America, West and East. Creativity should not be subdued or stifled and we uphold the principles of free speech and freedom from censorship.
There is so much art and interesting culture within the Iranian nation and it is meant to be brought out and shared with other countries. The Iranian people are imaginative, spirited and innovative and deserve to be heard.
As appropriately stated, the work of these filmmakers and actress is the most powerful ambassador of understanding between the people of Iran and the people of the world.
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