George Clooney critical of U.S. government at Venice festival
Actor George Clooney criticized the current state of U.S. politics and the influence of wealthy media owners during the Venice Film Festival. He also expressed concerns regarding the impact of artificial intelligence on the film industry and the potential merger of major studios.
Why it matters
High-profile celebrity commentary on political and industry trends highlights growing tensions between creative labor and corporate consolidation in Hollywood.
VENICE, Italy — George Clooney may be at the Venice Film Festival to receive a lifetime achievement award, but he didn’t dwell just on memories and nostalgia on Wednesday. Before the award ceremony, which he attended with wife Amal Clooney, the 65-year-old actor and director addressed issues such as the artificial intelligence revolution in Hollywood and the Paramount-Warner Bros. merger, and the state of journalism and power in America. “There’s a great word, kakistocracy, which is a country run by the least qualified people,” Clooney said. “I think maybe we have a kakistocracy right now.
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