EnergaCamerimage festival director Marek Żydowicz opened the 32nd edition of the event without any direct reference to his controversial comments that caused a firestorm this past week, saying that the festival was founded to honor those “who are overlooked” and not recognized by other awards.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, which is now underway in Torun, Poland, he also noted that “we are surrounded by images that lie, that misinform” and praised cinematographers as the antidote. “It is they who create what we see,” he said.
In a recent column published in Cinematography World magazine, Żydowicz appeared to suggest that having greater representation of women DPs and directors in the event’s selection could lead to the inclusion of “mediocre film productions.”
This provoked allegations of misogyny, leading to responses from groups including Women in Cinematography, the British Society of Cinematographers, American Society of Cinematographers and leaders of the International Cinematographers Guild (IATSE Local 600). A portion of a BSC letter read, “We are disheartened and angered by your profoundly misogynistic comments and aggressive tone, which we view as symptomatic of a deep-rooted prejudice. A film festival dedicated to the support and encouragement of cinematography and its practitioners deserves better.”
In a response to the BSC letter, Żydowicz suggested that its comments were “grounded in misunderstanding.” A portion reads: “Respect for others has always been my priority, and it remains one for our festival as well. … We have always strived to showcase only the best of contemporary cinema, regardless of who creates it. And that is how my statement should be understood, there is nothing more to it, it has nothing to do with lack of respect for women.”
As part of its response, Women in Cinematography outlined initiatives that it feels could lead to positive change at the festival.
Camerimage‘s main competition jury, led by Cate Blanchett, issued a statement this week, affirming its support for the festival and commitment to “meaningful discussions” after the controversial comments.
The ceremony began with a recorded message from conceptual and performance artist Marina Abramović, accepting a Camerimage award for artistic achievement.
Following the ceremony, Steve McQueen’s WWII drama “Blitz” is set to play in competition as the opening night film. McQueen this week cancelled his trip to Camerimage after the controversy started.
On Friday, Coralie Fargeat pulled her film “The Substance” from the Festival, also in response to the remarks.
Camerimage runs through Nov. 23.
