Cinema is an outlet that visualizes and subverts oppressive structures, but Hollywood is a tricky phenomenon where reality is often garbed in an invisible cloak. For the longest time, patriarchy has woven its roots deep within the film industry like any other sector, and from filmmakers to stars, everyone has been on their toes to do away with its origins. Last year, when Barbie was released, fans found a taste of these subversive genes via Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig. Despite the massive reception, not everyone was impressed and one such name is Kristen Stewart.

Stewart recently took a jab at the industry for its false prophets in the name of women's empowerment under their glitzy outlook.

In her recent cover story with Porter Magazine, Kristen Stewart criticized Hollywood as "phony" for its facade of self-realization, pointing out its widening scope and apparent move away from patriarchy. She highlighted the industry's favoritism towards films produced by Margot Robbie and Maggie Gyllenhaal, noting the persistent lack of equal opportunity that undermines Hollywood's claimed progress. 

Stewart expressed her respect and admiration for these women, but emphasized that true progress cannot be achieved if only a select few are elevated while others face bias. Her frustration is underscored by her recent revelations in Variety about struggling to secure financing for her directorial debut, The Chronology of Water. She has remained steadfast in her commitment to only pursue acting projects once her directorial aspirations are realized, staying true to her commitment to challenge the industry's status quo.

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Stewart may have brought focus to the industry’s inherent patriarchy, but by naming Robbie, she echoed a similar stance with Shakira, who directly took a jibe at Robbie’s movie, Barbie and its message.

When Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig's Barbie hit the screens, its meticulous production captivated the industry. From its soundtracks and the iconic monologue delivered by America Ferrera to its record-breaking cinematic achievement, Barbie was hailed as a breakthrough in dismantling long-standing prejudices against women. However, in a conversation with Allure, Shakira revealed that her sons had a strong aversion to the film. 

She echoed their sentiments, noting that they found it somewhat “emasculating”. The singer delved into the movie's message of empowerment, expressing her support for women's empowerment while cautioning against stripping men of their “possibility to be men”. While Kristen Stewart viewed the film's content through a broader industry lens and did not take issue with it, Shakira's perspective sparked intense debate.

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What do you think of Kristen Stewart's stance on Hollywood's priority over Margot Robbie and a handful of others? Let us know in the comments below!