Ayo Edebiri Defends Ongoing Social Justice Movements in Tense Venice Interview

Three days ago, actress Ayo Edebiri made waves at the Venice Film Festival for her impassioned response to an interviewer's insensitive question about the status of the #MeToo and Black Lives Matter movements in Hollywood.

Edebiri, who stars in the new film "After the Hunt" alongside Julia Roberts and Andrew Garfield, was participating in a press junket when the interviewer asked the co-stars what "to expect in Hollywood after the #MeToo movement and the Black Lives Matter are done." Visibly shocked, Edebiri immediately interjected, stating, "I know that that's not for me, and I don't know if it's purposeful if it's not for me... [but] I don't think it's done. I don't think it's done at all."

Edebiri went on to explain that while the daily headlines may have faded, the important work being done by activists is "really, really active for a reason because this world's really charged. And that work isn't finished at all." Garfield and Roberts both voiced their support, with Garfield affirming that the movements are "still absolutely alive."

"After the Hunt," which premiered at the Venice Film Festival to divisive responses, directly tackles the #MeToo movement by centering on a college professor (Roberts) who must confront her past after a student (Edebiri) accuses one of her colleagues (Garfield) of sexual assault. The film is set to open the New York Film Festival later this month before its theatrical release on October 10th.