Scarlett Johansson has always been active when it comes to women’s issues. Not only does she deliver empowering speeches at women’s marches, she was also particularly vocal when it came to James Franco wearing a Time’s Up pin to the 2018 Golden Globes, mere days before news sites broke the story of five women accusing the comedic actor of sexual assault, despite Franco’s denial of those allegations. Which is why it’s baffling that Johansson would now come out and defend Woody Allen of all people. Woody Allen of course, has been repeatedly accused of sexual misconduct towards young children. (Allen has always maintained his innocence. Despite multiple investigations, there have never been substantial evidence found to press charges against Allen.)
In an interview with THR, Scarlett Johansson was asked how she felt about the acclaimed director Woody Allen, who directed her in three films — Match Point, Scoop and Vicky Cristina Barcelona. She said:
“I love Woody. I believe him, and I would work with him any time. I see Woody whenever I can, and I have had a lot of conversations with him about it. I have been very direct with him, and he’s very direct with me. He maintains his innocence, and I believe him.”
Looks like Johansson has pitched a tent at the same campsite as the likes of Javier Bardem and Anjelica Huston while the likes of Michael Caine, Greta Gerwig and Timothee Chalamet have all expressed regret about working with Woody Allen. While I personally don’t think Woody Allen is innocent, it’s difficult to fault Scarlett Johansson for feeling this way. After all, multiple investigations against Allen have been conducted in the past and all of them have concluded that there isn’t enough evidence to suggest sexual misconduct.
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On a lighter note, Johansson also talked to THR about the solo Black Widow movie that’s set to hit theatres next year. The actress will not just be reprising her role as the titular ass-kicker but also serve as an executive producer. Regarding her executive producer role, she said:
“It is liberating in a way. I feel like I’m in control of the destiny of this film, which gives me a lot more peace of mind. I know her better than anybody. What was her childhood like? What is her relationship to figures of authority? This character is gritty and multi-dimensional but has a lot of trauma and has led an unexamined life. In order to operate at this elite level, she has probably had to push away a lot of stuff.”
Black Widow is directed by Cate Shortland (Berlin Syndrome, Lore) and is set for a 1 May 2020 release.
