LOS ANGELES (Diya TV) — The upcoming Star Wars film, directed by the Oscar-winning Pakistani Canadian, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, is under scrutiny after resurfaced comments about making men uncomfortable. Political figures like Ted Cruz and media host Matt Walsh have criticized the director, raising concerns about the movie’s potential success. But, is the criticism justified, or is it an unfair judgment?
During a 2015 panel moderated by Jon Stewart, Obaid-Chinoy stated, “I like to make men uncomfortable. I enjoy making men uncomfortable.” The clip has gone viral on social media, with Walsh predicting that the film is “destined to be Disney’s biggest flop yet.”
Texas Senator Ted Cruz expressed his concerns on Twitter, questioning if Disney intends to exclude male audiences from the next Star Wars movie. However, a deeper look into Obaid-Chinoy’s comments provides a different perspective.
The controversial statement was part of a larger discussion at the Women in the World Summit in 2015, focusing on the marginalization of women. Obaid-Chinoy’s comment came in response to a question about challenging patriarchal structures and promoting change.
In a recent CNN interview, Obaid-Chinoy addressed her role as the first woman to direct a Star Wars movie: “We’re in 2024 now, and it’s about time that we had a woman come forward to shape a story in a galaxy far, far away.”
Despite the backlash, it’s essential to recognize Obaid-Chinoy’s impressive credentials, boasting two Academy Awards and seven Emmy Awards. Her previous work has shed light on critical issues such as honor killings and acid attacks against women in Pakistan.
The debate over Obaid-Chinoy’s comments highlights the ongoing challenges faced by women in the film industry. However, it’s crucial to separate her advocacy for women’s rights from the distorted narrative surrounding the Star Wars movie.
Disney’s success with Star Wars installments since acquiring Lucasfilm in 2012 is noteworthy. Films like The Force Awakens, Rogue One, The Last Jedi, and The Rise of Skywalker have achieved significant box office success. Star Wars remains a lucrative asset for Disney, encompassing not only film revenue but also substantial merchandise sales.
While some critics argue that Disney’s recent decisions have impacted its market performance, including South Carolina’s decision to divest from Disney, the overall success of the Star Wars franchise suggests that fan engagement remains strong.
As the controversy unfolds, it’s essential to consider the broader context of Obaid-Chinoy’s comments and acknowledge the complex landscape of gender dynamics within the film industry. The upcoming Star Wars installment will undoubtedly face scrutiny, but only time will reveal its true impact on audiences and Disney’s financial standing.
