Cate Blanchett Highlights Challenges Faced by Displaced Filmmakers and Urges the Industry to Listen

 

Oscar‑winning actor Cate Blanchett has spoken out about the struggles that displaced filmmakers face around the world saying their voices and stories are being overlooked and underrepresented in mainstream cinema. Blanchett has launched the Displacement Film Fund to support directors and storytellers who have been forced from their homes because of conflict, persecution or flagrant human rights abuses.

Blanchett, who introduced the fund at the 2025 International Film Festival Rotterdam, said she is thrilled to present the first group of short films aided by the initiative and highlighted how deeply personal and powerful these works are. She described the stories as both heartbreaking and exciting and praised the filmmakers for bringing their unique perspectives to the screen.

Speaking ahead of screenings scheduled at the festival, Blanchett called displacement a global issue made worse by “strong men and criminals” attempting to force themselves into history through violence and acts of flagrant inhumanity. She urged the film industry to make space for these displaced voices in narratives and on production slates so audiences can better understand their lived experiences rather than sidelining them.

Blanchett also highlighted the urgency of supporting these filmmakers and noted that including more diverse and authentic perspectives not only enriches cinema but also gives displaced creators the opportunity to have their work seen and heard internationally.