Jane Rosenthal Champions Female and Nonbinary Filmmakers When the “Very Act of Us Speaking Up Feels Risky” at Chanel Tribeca Festival Luncheon

by

When reflecting on the people and factors that propelled her career, actress Mira Sorvino acknowledges Tribeca Festival co-founder Jane Rosenthal for providing her with the initial opportunity.

Jane Rosenthal initially provided my first opportunity in this field. Initially, I was an unpaid intern at Tribeca Productions, responsible for reading scripts. However, they appreciated my work so much that they offered me a salaried position as a reader. This role lasted two years, and during that period, I had the chance to read the script titled ‘Amongst Friends‘, which eventually became the first feature film in which I starred. Our collaboration led us to Sundance, marking the beginning of my career. Tribeca has always been supportive of budding artists, offering a helping hand to those who dared to chase their dreams.

Affirming participation in the 10th anniversary of the “Through Her Lens” – a program that highlights women and nonbinary filmmakers – during the Chanel Tribeca Festival Women’s Luncheon held at The Greenwich Hotel Courtyard on Friday was an obvious decision. Notably, as Sorvino points out, in a time when artists’ rights to free speech and expression are being challenged.

She explained to The Hollywood Reporter that this gathering is fostering an environment centered around humanitarian concerns, intersectionality, and respectful debate. It’s not just about opposing views; it’s more like a dialogue that can lead to a truth greater than its individual parts. This event serves as a symbol of sincerity and artistic freedom amidst a period when these values are being challenged.

Within a crowded hotel ballroom, Rosenthal emphasized the significance of expressing strong, open support for artists and their creative endeavors in today’s cultural climate.

Or simply:

Inside a bustling hotel room, Rosenthal underscored the importance of standing up for artists and their work in our current cultural scene.

The Tribeca co-founder shared with the group that expressing ourselves can feel daring,” he said. “This initiative underscores the importance of our voices, demonstrating that storytelling is a form of activism and art is a means of survival. During these challenging times, authors like Toni Morrison offer me solace. She believes that this is precisely the period when art will thrive — not when everything is peaceful, but in times of fear.

There’s no need for despair or self-pity. We communicate, we create, and that’s what builds civilizations. So, I want to express my gratitude for everything you write, every scene, every story you produce. I appreciate your efforts, your passion, your voices. And I’m thankful for your refusal to wait for approval. I’m grateful for the way you support each other.

Overcoming obstacles by speaking up and pursuing creativity, even during difficult times, was a recurring topic at the event discussions. In the realm of cinema specifically, Patty Jenkins, director of both “Wonder Woman” and “Monster”, emphasized this struggle is very much present for women and nonbinary filmmakers in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. Yet, it’s clear that stories told from diverse perspectives continue to carry significance.

As a passionate advocate for diverse narratives, I’ve noticed that the world is yearning for stories that reflect our unique identities, yet remain universally relatable. However, the traditional Hollywood system, which is showing signs of decay, hasn’t quite caught up, leading to a clash.

Here’s my encouragement: The independent film scene is experiencing a remarkable renaissance right now! With the major studio system seemingly on the brink, this presents an opportunity. But remember, we must all actively work to ensure our stories are heard, to demonstrate their commercial potential and prove there’s an audience for them. This moment is as exhilarating as it is frustrating.

After addressing the lunch attendees, Jenkins subsequently emphasized that creative individuals should seize this opportunity and involve their communities. “We possess our own funds, we have our own producers, and we boast our own talents,” she expressed. “However, it’s crucial that we fully embrace unity and avoid seeking approval or collaboration within the traditional framework.”

“This is why I appreciate being in this room,” she continued. “I am incredibly thankful to Chanel and Tribeca for facilitating such an event. It provides a platform for engaging in these vital discussions.

At the Tribeca and Chanel event, Rosenthal, Sorvino, and Jenkins were present alongside Chanel representatives Riley Keogh and Whitney Peak, along with attendees Lucy Liu, Olivia Munn, Parker Posey, Miley Cyrus, Carrie Coon, Beanie Feldstein, Nia DaCosta, Mariska Hargitay, Zosia Mamet, Annie Murphy, Ilana Glazer, Jurnee Smollett, Francesca Scorsese, and Rachel Hilson. During the event, they talked about how female and nonbinary artists can thrive in the current climate, while also expressing excitement for a mentorship program that provides U.S.-based up-and-coming creatives with industry assistance, artistic development opportunities, and funding.

This event is truly unique, as it brings together women and nonbinary individuals, all looking stunning, in Chanel no less, for deep, impactful discussions. It’s uncommon to find such a large gathering in one place. It’s exceptional how everyone comes together in this particular manner,” Feldstein stated. “I was incredibly fortunate to serve on the jury during their last event in the fall, where I witnessed numerous individuals sharing their creativity and passion with us, displaying openness to questions and feedback. The artistic quality was extraordinary and served as a source of inspiration for everyone present.

Hargitay shared, “This meal feels particularly significant to me as it’s about caring for others, and by doing so and staying true to ourselves, we can motivate people.” Her latest documentary, My Mom Jayne, debuts on HBO Max on June 27 and is also showing at Tribeca. “Ultimately, what each of us seeks, whether personally or professionally, is a sense of community,” she continued. “That’s where our strength lies. Whether you’re helping one person or millions, it’s the same principle.

The program primarily offers mentorship for rising talents, but attendees recognize its significance in various aspects, especially for women and nonbinary creatives as they progress in their careers. As DaCosta expressed to THR, “Mentorship isn’t just about learning from those higher up, it’s also gaining insights from your peers. I’ve received tremendous support from my fellow female filmmakers.” She emphasized the importance of reaching out for advice, sharing struggles, and celebrating achievements together – aspects that are just as crucial as discussing craft and business matters.

Mamet emphasizes that a mentor doesn’t always have to be someone at your same skill level. Instead, they could be someone who is still learning but offers insights that push you towards growth. He believes that choosing an artistic lifestyle can be challenging, with many moments of self-doubt. This journey isn’t straightforward, so he stresses the importance of a supportive community. In his view, mentorship is about finding such allies, regardless of their age or experience level. It’s more about locating those who can help you advance and keep you motivated.

The first part of the two-day event highlighted and linked visionary artists. In the afternoon, the session titled “Through Her Lens Conversation: In Process with Riley Keough & Gina Gammell” was held, where Keough introduced her new project. As she stated, the event, particularly “Through Her Lens and Tribeca,” motivated them to create three short videos focusing on various women’s creative journeys. They conducted a discussion with Keough, an actor, and a director separately. Admittedly, Keough was eager to observe other female artists at work.

One of the main motivations for actress Coon to attend the event was to connect with other women and discuss their creative endeavors beyond just the basics. As she put it, “Every time I meet these women, I’m saving their numbers in my phone and I’m ready to give them a call right away.” The actress believes that when women gather together, something truly impactful may occur. However, history has often kept us apart. By holding events like this more frequently, we increase the chances of not only rescuing the creative industries but potentially saving the world as well.

Read More

2025-06-07 21:25