At the Berlin International Film Festival, actor Ethan Hawke, a two-time nominee for the Academy Awards, presented his new historical drama The Weight and shared his thoughts on the role of celebrities in political life.
At a press conference, he was asked about his views on the responsibility of stars who speak out on hot topics. Hawke ironically stated, "You know... the last place you should look for spiritual guidance and advice is a bunch of drunken artists, tired from changing time zones, trying to talk about their movies."
Nevertheless, the actor emphasized his belief in the power of cinema. He noted that festivals and collective work create a "healing international 'life in a dream'" that helps people gain understanding and strength for new actions.
Regarding his new film, Hawke said that its story attracted him because it tells about a group of people who, without expecting community, united to confront institutional greed and evil.