Women In Media strongly condemns the actions, statements, and publication of the piece in “The View From The Top” in Cinematography World by EnergaCAMERIMAGE. The article reflects a profoundly troubling disregard for inclusivity, diversity, and respect toward women and other marginalized groups in the film industry. Especially worrisome is the damage done to the festival itself. It shows a downhill slide towards irrelevance with outdated thinking. As a result of the ongoing misogyny and systemic exclusion, we, as well as many in the camera arts will be boycotting the festival. Many have signed this petition.
The “question” presented by Marek Żydowicz, Director and CEO of EnergaCAMERIMAGE, is a false dichotomy: “Can we sacrifice works and artists with outstanding artistic achievements solely to make room for mediocre productions?” In the context of art produced by women, audiences disagree. We are not facing an either-or prospect. To frame the matter as such reveals the deep troubling bias that led to the underrepresentation of diverse voices in the first place.
Such sentiments not only undermine the vital inclusion of underrepresented voices in cinema but also perpetuate a culture that dismisses the value of diverse perspectives and contributions. The suggestion that inclusivity and representation would lead to “mediocrity” is both factually incorrect and inherently misogynistic. The industry has a wealth of talented artists, many of whom have historically been marginalized or overlooked. Broadening the scope of who gets recognized and celebrated only enhances the richness and depth of the cinematic landscape. Imagine all the talent and stories that we, the filmgoing public have been cheated out of, due to this gatekeeping!
Moreover, such views from a prominent film festival sends a damaging message to the next generation of filmmakers. This message takes aim particularly at women and those from underrepresented communities. It suggests they will not be taken seriously. This perspective is out of step with the evolving values of a global audience that appreciates diversity, equity, and respect for all creators. It not only stifles creativity, but is bad for a business where every viewer wants to see themselves on the screen, larger than life and more heroic. Women are the driving force behind what films are seen, so excluding them from the creative conversation leaves money on the table.
Moving Forward
We urge EnergaCAMERIMAGE to take immediate and meaningful steps to address these statements. Panels by and about women are a start, but let’s not ghettoize women either. Include women in broader conversations and show our work in competition and all categories. Do not dismiss our work, as has been done in the past. We know that if you are honest, you will recognize more work by women and other marginalized people. True artistic achievement transcends any one set of voices and benefits immensely from the contributions of artists of all backgrounds.
We cannot build a thriving creative industry by clinging to exclusionary, regressive views. If our industry is to survive, and indeed expand, it is essential to uplift diverse voices and celebrate the wealth of perspectives they bring.
Innovation and systemic change can be challenging for some. We would like to offer Camerimage tools to improve. Please contact us at Hello@WomenNMedia.com
Not Going To EnergaCAMERIMAGE?
Please join us and the ASC at Bokeh rentals on November 19th for LensApalooza: https://womennmedia.com/event/lensapalooza/
