Filmmakers Warn of Political Pressure on

At the Zurich Summit on September 27, 2025, a panel of filmmakers and executives warned that political polarization and attacks on free expression are reshaping the film industry, The Hollywood Reporter wrote. Nathanaël Karmitz, chairman of French distributor mk2, said that “culture is under attack and cinema is under attack everywhere.” He claimed far-right Twitter accounts systematically attack movies and have become the main voice people hear on the platform. Karmitz also noted recent attempts by right-wing politicians in France to dismantle the country's CNC film funding body and privatize public television.

Karmitz stated his company now chooses to confront criticism directly, believing that companies must take a position without fear of consequences. Film data researcher Stephen Follows added that the film industry is fundamentally "risk-averse and scared and cowardly" and needs agitators to push back. The source did not detail other specific examples of political pressure from other regions. Karmitz expressed optimism, stating he believes in the ability of artists and companies to "get themselves up and fight back."