In a recent turn of events, Danny Cohen, the executive producer of the film “The Zone of Interest,” has publicly disagreed with director Jonathan Glazer’s controversial Oscars speech. Glazer sparked outrage during his acceptance speech by comparing the Holocaust depicted in the film to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Cohen expressed understanding for those who were upset and angry about Glazer’s remarks, emphasizing that the film’s portrayal of Rudolf Höss living near Auschwitz was meant to contribute to Holocaust education. However, members of the Jewish community were left feeling upset as they believed the crucial importance of Holocaust education was being overshadowed by mixing it with the Gaza conflict.
Cohen also voiced his disapproval of Glazer’s comments, placing blame on Hamas for the continuation of the war in Gaza. Despite Glazer’s speech receiving support from those advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza, Cohen felt disappointed that the message detracted from the success of the film.
The speech had been planned by Glazer and producer James Wilson, with Len Blavatnik reportedly unaware of its content. Cohen and Blavatnik agreed to finance the movie after being moved by photos of the Höss family living near Auschwitz.
Despite the controversy surrounding Glazer’s speech, Cohen remains proud of the film and its impact on Holocaust education. He hopes that the message of the film will not be lost amidst the debate stirred by the Oscars speech. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story on ‘The Puck Drop’.
