“The Power of the Dog,” director Jane Campion is being (appropriately) dragged on social media this morning after she mentioned Serena and Venus Willians during her acceptance speech on Sunday.
While accepting the award for Best Director, Campion shouted out her fellow directors (the all-male directors nominated this year) before turning her attention to the tennis stars.
“It’s absolutely stunning to be here tonight among so many incredible women,” Campion said. Halle Berry, you have already done my speech … and really killed it. I loved it. You’re absolutely brilliant.”
She continued: “What an honor to be in the room with you. I’ve taken up tennis — I truly have — and Will [Smith], if you want to come over and give me lessons, I would truly love it. I actually had to stop playing because I’ve got tennis elbow.”
She went on to say: “Serena and Venus, you are such marvels. However, you do not play against the guys like I have to,” as she lifted her trophy above her head.
The camera quickly panned to the sisters. While Serena is seen laughing and clapping, Venus appears to smile reluctantly.
The comments were unnecessary.
Campion’s remarks had Twitter in a shambles. One of the many people who called her out was British actress Jodie Turner-Smith.
“jane taking time out of her best director speech to tell two Black women that she is more oppressed than them is PEAK white feminism,” she tweeted.
The tennis star duo attended the event to speak onstage about “King Richard,” the biopic about their late father starring Will Smith, who took home the best actor Critics Choice Award for his portrayal.
Another Twitter user weighed in: “Jane Campion, how exactly does diminishing and stomping all over the constant misogynoir Venus and Serena face help you, a white woman, climb the ladder…how ugly and privileged of you. I need some people to enjoy the sound of their own voices a little bit less.”
Campion has not responded to the backlash. We predict a groveling apology in Campion’s future.
You can view more reactions to Campion’s speech below:
