Exploring Social Justice in Hollywood: Ayo Edebiri and Cast Discuss #MeToo and Black Lives Matter in After the Hunt
A recent incident involving Ayo Edebiri and an Italian reporter discussing the #MeToo and Black Lives Matter movements sparked a viral conversation. Edebiri, along with her co-stars Julia Roberts, Andrew Garfield, and Michael Stuhlbarg, as well as director Luca Guadagnino and writer Nora Garrett, addressed the incident during a press conference at the 2025 New York Film Festival. The film they were promoting, After the Hunt, explores complex themes related to sexual assault and power dynamics in academia.
During a junket interview at the Venice Film Festival, the Italian journalist Federica Polidoro posed a question about the future of Hollywood post-#MeToo and Black Lives Matter movements. Edebiri, Roberts, and Garfield reacted with surprise to the question, with Edebiri emphasizing that the work of activists in addressing systemic issues is ongoing and far from over. The exchange garnered attention online, with many criticizing the reporter for her insensitive question.
After the Hunt is set to premiere in select U.S. theaters on October 10, followed by a wider release on October 17. The film will be available for streaming on MGM+ and Amazon Prime Video after its theatrical run. The cast and crew's response to the viral interview highlights the importance of continuing conversations around social justice and equality in the entertainment industry and beyond.