Portman appeared at Sundance wearing two pins — one reading “ICE Out” and another saying “Be Good,” a reference to Renée Good, who was killed by ICE in Minneapolis earlier this month. Her appearance came just hours after another fatal shooting involving federal agents in the city, underscoring the urgency of her remarks.
Speaking during an interview at the Variety Studio presented by Audible, Portman did not shy away from addressing the moment.
“This is such a joyful community celebrating film here, and we’re so excited to be showing The Gallerist,” Portman said. “But we’re also at a moment in our country’s history that is quite devastating. It’s really impossible not to talk about what is happening right now and the brutality of ICE and how it has to stop immediately.”
She added that while the country is in pain, she has been moved by the solidarity she’s seen across communities. “Americans are showing up for each other, protecting each other and fighting for their freedom. It’s a bittersweet moment to celebrate something we’re so proud of.”
Portman’s interview took place ahead of The Gallerist’s world premiere at the festival. Directed by Cathy Yan, the film co-stars Jenna Ortega and follows a desperate art dealer who conspires to sell a dead body at Art Basel Miami.
Portman had glowing praise for Ortega, calling her “a fucking great actress” and noting her deep knowledge of film. “She’s so on and in it. It is rare,” Portman said. “You’re not there to mess around.”
She was equally enthusiastic about Yan’s leadership on set, describing the director as “brilliant” with a clear and specific vision. According to Portman, Yan’s preparation and precision allowed the cast to find spontaneity and emotional truth within the film’s satirical tone.
With The Gallerist shaping up to be one of Sundance’s most talked-about films from a woman director, Portman also used the platform to criticize the Academy Awards for failing to recognize more female-directed films this year.
While Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet earned eight Oscar nominations, Portman noted that many other acclaimed films by women were left out.
“So many of the best films I saw this year were made by women,” she said, naming Sorry Baby, Left-Handed Girl, Hedda, and The Testament of Ann Lee as examples. “Extraordinary films that people are loving, but that are not getting the accolades they deserve.”
As Sundance continues, Portman’s words — and her visible protest — have added a sharp political edge to one of the festival’s most high-profile premieres.
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