Key Highlights
Geena Davis, that fierce 70-year-old who has etched her name into the annals of cinema with Thelma & Louise, Tootsie, and Beetlejuice, recently graced the red carpet at the amfAR Gala Cannes. The star, known for her activism in gender equality, looked younger than ever in a white off-the-shoulder gown that framed her lithe figure with structured folds.
Self-Confidence and Feminism
Davis opened up to The Times about the struggle of maintaining self-confidence as she ages. “It’s always been a struggle,” she said, adding, “I feel like I’ve got more attractive with every decade. Either I have, or I’m feeling better about myself.” This statement, while seemingly contradictory, reflects her deep-rooted belief in personal growth and acceptance.
The Geena Davis Institute on Gender
For decades, Davis has been a vocal advocate for women in film, founding the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in 2004. This institute’s mission is to gather data on gender inequity in Hollywood and bring it to production companies to encourage change. “I found that no one else in Hollywood seemed to be recognizing what I saw,” she told Variety. Despite efforts to modernize the industry, Davis notes resistance from some producers who claim progress has already been made.
Challenges and Triumphs
Davis shared her experience with ageism in Hollywood, recalling a time when she was turned down for a role opposite an older male actor. “It’s very strange and so prevalent,” she said. Davis explained that women peak in their 20s and 30s while men peak later in their careers as actors. This discrepancy fuels the industry’s tendency to cast young actors alongside older leads, further marginalizing experienced actresses.
Despite these challenges, Davis remains optimistic about her current career renaissance with a starring role in The Boroughs. “In a seemingly picturesque retirement community, a group of unlikely heroes must band together to stop an otherworldly threat from stealing the one thing they don’t have – time,” she said.
This new project highlights her ongoing commitment to challenging norms and pushing boundaries.
Davis’ journey is a testament to resilience in the face of systemic biases. As we continue to navigate the complexities of ageism and gender equality, Geena Davis serves as an inspiration for all who seek to break through barriers and redefine success on their own terms.
