Ava Duvernay and Other Filmmakers Pledge to Boycott Israeli Film Institutions

Ava Duvernay is among over 1,300 filmmakers, actors, and figures in the entertainment industry who have signed an open letter committing to a boycott of Israeli film institutions.

The letter, shared on Instagram by the Palestinian advocacy group, Cinema Workers, accuses these institutions of participating in what it describes as “genocide and apartheid against the Palestinians.” The letter states a commitment to do everything possible to end complicity in the actions against Gaza.

Notable signatories include Susan Sarandon, Joe Alwyn, Julie Christie, Ayo Edebiri, Boots Reilly, Brian Cox, Gael Garcia Bernal, Hannah Einbinder, Javier Bardem, Josh O’Connor, and Yorgos Lanthimos, among others.

The open letter emphasizes the significant role of film in influencing public opinion, stating, “As filmmakers, actors, and industry workers, we recognize the power of film that shapes perception.” It further details the urgency of the situation, noting how many governments are contributing to the crisis in Gaza.

It continues, “We have pledged to avoid screening films, appearing at, or collaborating with Israeli film institutions—like festivals, cinemas, broadcasters, or production companies—that are involved in actions against the Palestinian people.”

The letter criticizes Israeli film organizations for allegedly legitimizing national policies through collaboration with governmental bodies, thereby obscuring the realities of what the signatories label genocide and apartheid.

Referencing a recent ruling from the International Court of Justice, which identified “plausible risks” of genocide in Gaza, the group argues that silence from artists equates to complicity. They characterize the boycott as a moral duty for anyone in the industry advocating for equality and justice.