BAFTAs 2020: Joaquin Phoenix admits he's part of the 'systemic racism', but fans can only see an 'angel'
Diversity — or the lack of it — was the hot topic at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts 2020. Joaquin Phoenix, who won the Best Actor prize for 'Joker', made several heads turn with his powerful speech on the topic.
“I feel conflicted because so many of my fellow actors that are deserving don’t have that same privilege. I think that we send a very clear message to people of color that you’re not welcome here,” he said at the Royal Albert Hall. “I think that’s the message that we’re sending to people that have contributed so much to our medium and our industry, and in ways that we benefit from.”
“I think people just want to be acknowledged, appreciated and respected for their work. This is not a self-righteous condemnation because I’m ashamed to say that I’m part of the problem,” Phoenix continued, adding, “We have to do the hard work to truly understand systemic racism. I think it is the obligation of the people that have created and perpetuate and benefit from a system of oppression to be the ones that dismantle it. That’s on us.”
No sooner did he make his speech that social media was full of congratulatory tweets and praiseworthy words. "Well done to Joaquin Phoenix for winning leading actor award. His powerful speech about better representation on the screen was welcomed and well received. Let’s hope we see the industry embrace better diversity both in front of and behind the camera," one tweet read and another said, "#JoaquinPhoenix was so traumatized by the force of his own words that he nearly forgot his #BAFTA. A rare moment indeed."
One fan, however, pointed out that his film was part of the problem. "Love #JoaquinPhoenix. His #BAFTA speech was wonderful. But it definitely feels weird that the film he won for contains an undeniably problematic approach to race that, at best, is highly confused and, at worst, is part of the problem," the tweet read. Another viewer posted, "I never thought I could ever cry over an award or a speech at some award show. #JoaquinPhoenix made me cry. He is such a pure soul. An angel sent to earth. #BAFTA."
Sam Mendes’ '1917' was the big winner on Sunday at the star-studded ceremony as it scored seven trophies.