In the realm of the #MeToo discussion, there is quite a bit of discussion about actress-filmmaker Asia Argento. When the movement originated, the actress found herself in one of the most high-profile positions, speaking out about sexual assault and harassment in Hollywood, particularly perpetrated by Harvey Weinstein. However, things changed last year, when it was alleged by an actor that worked with Argento on a film when he was underage that she assaulted him. Since then, Argento has found herself on the other side of the discussion, which has caused her a great deal of pain, as she discussed in a recent interview.
Speaking to Le Monde, Argento talked about the Harvey Weinstein trial, her own accusations against the mogul, as well as the allegations that were publicized from actor Jimmy Bennett. And perhaps a bit unsurprisingly, she now has a new opinion about what #MeToo stands for and its effect on Hollywood.
“Regarding the injustices I suffered, I felt that the Europeans were more perceptive than the Americans,” said Argento. “Many here have understood that the actor who accuses me of pedophilia, Jimmy Bennett, is being manipulated. This surge of solidarity touched me. Because of this, I lived through the terrible years of 2017 and 2018.”
READ MORE: Dario Argento Reteams with Daughter Asia for ‘Black Glasses’
While she isn’t specific on who might be manipulating Bennett, Argento says that the whole situation undermined what she said about #MeToo and “suited everyone, including Weinstein and his friends.”
The actress commented that #MeToo started as a way to denounce abuses of power, but the movement has morphed into something completely different recently.
“#MeToo has become a Hollywood product, something silly, a bit fake and reactionary: a badge, an evening dress, and that’s it,” she said. “Christian democracy in all its splendor. So-and-so denounces so-and-so because he pushed his head when they made love… As if there was a morbid interest in the sex life of celebrities – all the more so if it is a little deviant.”
In addition to the controversy that surrounds Argento in light of her accusations against Weinstein, as well as allegations against the actress herself, she’s also had to deal with the death of her partner, Anthony Bourdain in 2018. And she credits, in part, filmmaker Gaspar Noe for helping her during that time.
“After the death of my companion, Gaspar Noé organized a screening of his film ‘Climax,’ at 10AM, for me and my daughter, in Paris,” she explained. “I screamed during the whole session; in the end, I was trembling, dazed. This terror set me free; I felt alive.”
Recently, it was announced that Asia Argento would reteam with her father, Dario, for a new film titled “Black Glasses.” A release date has not been announced.