Harvey Weinstein, a former luminary of the Hollywood film industry, wielded immense power. He co-founded Miramax and later the Weinstein Company, producing numerous critically acclaimed films and exerting substantial influence during awards seasons. However, his career took a grave turn as allegations of sexual misconduct and assault surfaced in 2017, leading to his downfall.
These revelations catalyzed the global #MeToo movement, shedding light on pervasive issues of harassment and abuse in the entertainment industry and beyond. In 2020, Weinstein faced convictions for rape and sexual assault, resulting in a 23-year prison sentence—an impactful moment in the battle against sexual misconduct.
Harvey Weinstein’s Demands Frustrated This Director
Harvey Weinstein earned a notoriety for being a demanding perfectionist, earning him the moniker “Harvey Scissorhands” due to his sometimes ruthless editing approach. In an interview with The New Yorker, he remarked, “I’m not cutting for fun; I’m cutting for the shit to work. All my life I served one master: the film. I love movies.“
In 2008, leaked correspondence exchanged between Weinstein and director Stephen Daldry of The Reader, starring Kate Winslet, exposed a frantic and strained filmmaking procedure.
Daldry said (via The Guardian):
“I cannot be party to a process that strips me of my ability to make my work good. That is not something you can require of me … I have to call a halt to this process, this arguing over a date, and simply say that there is a line I will not cross, and this is it.”
Producer Scott Rudin aligned himself with the director, firmly backing Daldry’s quest for a manageable post-production timetable, even in the face of Weinstein’s heated objections. According to numerous reports, Rudin endured a barrage of verbal attacks from Weinstein but did not hesitate to respond in kind. It was a clash between two individuals known for their difficult personalities and controversial reputations, making it a well-matched standoff.
Meryl Streep Referred to Harvey Weinstein As “God“
Renowned Hollywood actress Meryl Streep received acclaim for her outstanding portrayal in Phyllida Lloyd’s 2011 film, The Iron Lady. Despite the movie’s mixed critical reception, Streep secured her third Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. In her 2012 acceptance speech, she playfully referred to Harvey Weinstein as a “god.“
Meryl Streep earned an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Margaret Thatcher in the film. However, five years later, Harvey Weinstein faced numerous allegations of rape, sexual assault, and sexual abuse from multiple women.
Streep said (via Huffpost)
“The disgraceful news about Harvey Weinstein has appalled those of us whose work he championed and those whose good and worthy causes he supported. The intrepid women who raised their voices to expose this abuse are our heroes,” adding, “One thing can be clarified. Not everybody knew. Harvey supported the work fiercely, was exasperating but respectful with me in our working relationship, and with many others with whom he worked professionally.”
In her statement, Streep emphasized her lack of knowledge regarding Weinstein’s meetings and his interactions with other celebrities.
The Reader is available for streaming on Plex.
Source: The Guardian, Huffpost
