Charlize Theron Settles Scores With Hollywood And Jeff Bezos

At the 2015 Cannes Film Festival, Theron embodies icy grace, a powerful contrast to her gritty roles. Under the spotlight, she promotes Mad Max: Fury Road, a feminist film disguised as a blockbuster, which she fiercely defended against a hesitant studio. An appearance that, behind the glamour, is already a statement.

Charlize Theron makes a highly anticipated return with The Old Guard 2, streaming since July 2 on Netflix. This much-publicized comeback, however, is accompanied by controversies. Recently, Theron was involved in a dispute with Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, following her harsh criticism of working conditions in Amazon Prime studios. Additionally, she sparked a strong reaction by publicly accusing a famous director of abusive behavior, without revealing his identity, stating: “I want the story to remain mine, not his.” These recent events show an actress who now refuses compromises, making each public appearance a political and ethical stance.

At the Cannes Festival, Theron embodies icy grace, a powerful contrast to her daring roles. Under the spotlight, she promotes Mad Max: Fury Road, a feminist film disguised as a blockbuster, which she fiercely defended against a hesitant studio. An appearance that, behind the glamour, is already a statement.
At the Cannes Festival, Theron embodies icy grace, a powerful contrast to her daring roles. Under the spotlight, she promotes Mad Max: Fury Road, a feminist film disguised as a blockbuster, which she fiercely defended against a hesitant studio. An appearance that, behind the glamour, is already a statement.

An actress committed on screen and in life

In The Old Guard 2, Theron reprises her role as Andy, an immortal warrior who suddenly becomes vulnerable. The change brings an unprecedented complexity to her character, subtly revealing her human flaws. Victoria Mahoney, the first woman to direct a blockbuster of this scale, creates a darker and more introspective atmosphere. Theron, both actress and producer through Denver and Delilah Productions, personally invested in the artistic direction, notably refusing the use of stunt doubles in fight scenes.

A filmography marked by transformation

Theron has always portrayed ambivalent and strong characters, constantly exploring the limits of her identity as an actress. Her Oscar win for Monster in 2004, where she played serial killer Aileen Wuornos, remains iconic. Far from being confined to glamorous roles, she often prefers darkness and psychological nuance. Her performance in Mad Max: Fury Road marks a decisive turning point, firmly establishing her image as a strong and combative woman.

On this red carpet, she embodies Megyn Kelly, a journalist crushed by Fox News. Her mimicry is such that Roger Ailes himself would have shuddered. Theron not only played a role, she produced Bombshell, and thus financed an indictment disguised as drama. A lucid elegance, made up as a political weapon.
On this red carpet, she embodies Megyn Kelly, a journalist crushed by Fox News. Her mimicry is such that Roger Ailes himself would have shuddered. Theron not only played a role, she produced Bombshell, and thus financed an indictment disguised as drama. A lucid elegance, made up as a political weapon.

In parallel, her notable performance in Bombshell (2019) underscores her feminist commitment. She plays Megyn Kelly, a famous American journalist facing sexual harassment in the media industry. This complex role, full of subtlety, reflects her desire to bring contemporary women’s struggles to the screen.

A pioneer in female action cinema

In recent years, Theron has been redefining action cinema. Through her resilient and complex characters, she systematically deconstructs female stereotypes. In The Old Guard 2, she continues this mission with a powerful female cast including Vân Veronica Ngô and Uma Thurman. Their confrontation symbolizes a broader reflection on female maturation in the traditionally male-dominated blockbuster universe.

An outspoken political voice

Theron has never hidden her political opinions. At a recent gala in Los Angeles for her association Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project, she vehemently denounced migration policies, the regression of women’s rights, and gender violence. Originally from South Africa, she was marked from childhood by the violence of apartheid. Additionally, family traumas have influenced her life. Thus, she embodies her activism with conviction, using her fame to advance universal causes.

In Los Angeles, far from the studios, she advocates for healthcare access in Southern Africa. Her childhood marked by apartheid fuels a constant and concrete action through her NGO. Theron is not playing a role here; she speaks of her homeland with the determination of a woman who refuses to let the world forget where she comes from.
In Los Angeles, far from the studios, she advocates for healthcare access in Southern Africa. Her childhood marked by apartheid fuels a constant and concrete action through her NGO. Theron is not playing a role here; she speaks of her homeland with the determination of a woman who refuses to let the world forget where she comes from.

The artistic personality of an uncompromising actress

What profoundly distinguishes Theron is her refusal of conventions and her courage to defy expectations. Her ability to fully immerse herself in her roles reveals a demanding and perfectionist actress, known for her spectacular physical transformations. Behind each character, Theron explores a deep, intimate truth, going beyond mere performance: it is an incessant quest for meaning.

As a producer, she chooses her projects with discernment, favoring strong and committed narratives. Thus, her production company Denver and Delilah actively encourages diversity and female representation, as evidenced by her active involvement in every stage of creation.

A solid humanitarian commitment, rooted in Africa

Her humanitarian work goes beyond media speeches. Since 2007, her association has been taking concrete actions in Southern Africa, particularly in health and education. Theron does not hesitate to openly criticize international policies when they undermine these initiatives, especially in the fight against HIV.

She has been named a UN Messenger of Peace. Consequently, she embodies a lucid and authentic diplomacy. Moreover, her approach is based on fundamental human values. This sincerity greatly enhances her image as a responsible and committed actress.

A peaceful relationship with time

Now 49 years old, Charlize Theron displays a new serenity towards aging. She fully accepts the evolution of her body, as well as her artistic aspirations. However, she does not abandon her commitments. Furthermore, she remains true to her personal and professional battles.

Whether portraying a heroine on screen or speaking publicly, Charlize Theron remains true to a deep conviction: that of being a free, courageous, and profoundly human woman, ready to defend with determination the truths that matter to her.

This article was written by Pierre-Antoine Tsady.