Jonathan Glazer’s The Zone of Interest started the night of the 96th Academy Awards as a bit of a dark horse. However, the German-language film took home two Oscars, including one for Best International Feature Film. The movie explores the life of a family living near the atrocities of the Auschwitz concentration camp.
Given the poignant nature of his film, it was only natural that Glazer’s acceptance speech at the prestigious ceremony would have some bold statements. While accepting the award, Glazer made a brave speech that not only reflected on the current inhumane actions taking place in the real world but also managed to win over the internet. Here is what Glazer said in his speech and how the internet is reacting to it.
The Zone of Interest Director Gives Bold and Encouraging Speech After Oscar Win
Directed by Jonathan Glazer, The Zone of Interest won the Best International Feature Film award at the 96th Academy Awards. Following his win, Glazer went on stage to accept the award and took a moment to thank all his collaborators who worked on the movie. However, Glazer also took the opportunity to speak out against real-world atrocities being committed in Israel and Gaza.
Glazer stated that his film was meant to show where dehumanization leads at its worst and how it shapes the past and present of humanity. At the same time, Glazer said that he refused to let anyone take advantage of the Holocaust to wage conflict for innocent people.
“Whether the victims of October 7th in Israel, or the ongoing attack on Gaza, all the victims of this dehumanization, how do we resist?”
Glazer boldly made the above statement, clearly referencing the Israel–Hamas war that has led to the loss of many innocent lives. At the awards ceremony, several celebrities silently showed their protest against the war. However, Glazer was bold enough to directly address the real-world issue in his acceptance speech while on stage.
Jonathan Glazer’s Brave Oscars Speech Wins Over the Internet
After Jonathan Glazer’s speech at the 96th Academy Awards, his words caught the attention of several viewers. As a result, viewers took to social media to express their support for Glazer’s words and applauded the director for his bold statements.
Here is what netizens were saying about Glazer’s Oscars speech on X.
Beautifully said.. end suffering
— ༆ Enana Vuvor🥶🌚 ༆ (@truevoid0) March 11, 2024
Thank you for sharing humanity and highlighting evil occupation #FreePalesitine
— Alison Jose (@AlisonJ37613244) March 11, 2024
Jonathan Glazer's speech had the perfect blend of gratitude and insight, truly reflective of 'THE ZONE OF INTEREST's' depth. It's refreshing to see such originality recognized on the global stage; it sets a high bar for future international films.
— A n k i s h (@franklyankish) March 11, 2024
ABSOLUTELY BONKERS!
— Miss Dior (@oh_youloveit) March 11, 2024
It’s so so good to see that someone works really reflect his values
— Shrouq (@Cleopatra120830) March 11, 2024
As the tweets indicate, most internet users felt that Glazer’s speech was brave and reflected his personal values. Moreover, Glazer made viewers care about real-world issues through his words, on a night when most people are only concerned about the winners and snubs of the year.
Irrespective of the stance Glazer chose to take amidst serious real-world socio-political issues, netizens applauded the director for taking the opportunity to speak about ending dehumanization and atrocities across the globe. As a result, it is safe to say that Glazer won many hearts on the internet with his acceptance speech.