As though you were under any allusions as to the political leanings of the acting class, the cinematic stars weighed in on the topic on everyone's lips during the Hollywood Film Awards. According to Variety, Sunday's special night was seen as an opportunistic moment with the press watching to use the spotlight as a bully pulpit ahead of Tuesday's historic 2016 presidential election.
Featuring a list of the biggest names in the industry, Robert De Niro's speech stood out as an outright endorsement for the Democratic nominee.
“It’s two days to a frightening election," warned The Intern star. "And the shadow of politics is hanging over us whether we like it or not. And it’s hard for me to think of anything else. So let me just lay it out right here. We have the opportunity to prevent a comedy from turning into a tragedy. Vote for Hillary Tuesday.”
Congratulations to Robert De Niro! He is honored with the Hollywood Comedy Award. #HollywoodAwards pic.twitter.com/MXCAPiarX4
— Hollywood Awards (@hollywoodawards) November 7, 2016
Leo's Doco On Point Ahead of Tuesday's Monumental Moment
Congrats to @LeoDiCaprio and @fisherstevensbk for being honored with the Hollywood Documentary Award for #BeforeTheFlood! #HollywoodAwards pic.twitter.com/FKTD0Qs0E4
— Hollywood Awards (@hollywoodawards) November 7, 2016
Claiming an award for his documentary Before the Flood with filmmaker Fisher Stevens, Leonardo DiCaprio understood the issue close to his heart was as good a time as any to remind the public about the impending problem and why their vote will matter.
“It is an issue that has been willfully ignored and disputed for corporate profits, political capital, and short term personal gains,” said The Revenant star. “Even in our own presidential and vice presidential debates — our most widely viewed stages for the issues that define our future — not one question on climate change was asked. That is completely unacceptable ... All of us need to act. Let’s all use our power as citizens and do the right thing. Please vote this Tuesday,”
Republicans and Independents Stay Silent
Either gauging the mood of the room or just deciding to keep their opinions to themselves, those that have come out in support of Donald Trump or various Independents on the ticket chose to stick to the awards and keep politics out of it. With Trolls voiceover actor James Corden cracking topical jokes at Trump's expense, noted Republican Clint Eastwood introduced Tom Hanks to the stage while Hacksaw Ridge director Mel Gibson did likewise.
Greens supporter Susan Sarandon did not touch on the topic as she introduced Natalie Portman. Her portrayal of Jackie Kennedy in the new biopic Jackie hit a nerve with the actress and she wanted her views known.
“We have obviously heard so many crazy things that have been said about women this year politically. And to women," said Portman. "I feel so lucky to be part of this film that is about a woman who was known first for being a wife, but then really became someone who could be recognized on their own merits.”
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