Actor-producer Natalie Portman isn’t holding back. While celebrating the Sundance premiere of her latest film The Gallerist, Portman used the moment to take direct aim at the Academy Awards, accusing Oscars organisers of sidelining women directors yet again. Alongside the awards criticism, the actor also delivered a strong condemnation of ICE brutality in the United States, calling the current moment both professionally celebratory and emotionally painful.
Natalie Portman Slams Oscars 2026 Selection Pattern
Speaking at the Sundance Film Festival press conference, Portman criticised the Oscars’ nomination process, saying several strong films directed by women were ignored when the Academy Awards announced the 2026 nominations on January 22.
According to Portman, the issue goes far beyond numbers. She argued that women filmmakers continue to face barriers not just at entry levels, but also when it comes to recognition and accolades. “People only see the starting line,” she noted, adding that many women are erased when awards season arrives.
Portman highlighted that Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet was the only female-directed project to receive major recognition this year, securing eight nominations including Best Picture and Best Director. In her view, this barely scratches the surface of the quality work released.
She specifically named Sorry Baby, Left-Handed Girl, Hedda, and The Testament of Ann Lee as films she felt deserved serious consideration from the Academy jury.
‘The Gallerist’ and a Bittersweet Moment
Portman’s remarks came just days after The Gallerist premiered at Sundance Film Festival on January 24. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release later in 2026.
The dark comedy thriller is directed by Cathy Yan and features an ensemble cast including Jenna Ortega, Sterling K. Brown, Zach Galifianakis, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
Portman also serves as a producer on the project, alongside Jonathan King, Ash Sarohia, Sophie Mas, Tom McCarthy, Rae Baron, and Zola Elgart Glassman. The film’s music is composed by Andrew Orkin and Joseph Shirley.
Natalie Portman Speaks Out Against ICE Brutality
Beyond awards politics, Portman addressed a far more serious issue during the press interaction. She openly condemned the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, following the fatal killing of Renée Good in Minneapolis on January 7, 2026.
Calling the incident horrifying, Portman said the brutality associated with ICE must stop immediately. She described the moment as “bittersweet,” explaining how difficult it felt to celebrate her film’s success while the country was grappling with such violence.
A Career Still Expanding
Portman’s comments arrive during a particularly active phase of her career. From Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace to Black Swan, Thor, Knight of Cups, and Song to Song, her filmography spans decades and genres. She’s also set to appear next in Good Sex, which she is producing as well.
Final Words
Natalie Portman’s Sundance appearance turned into more than a film promotion—it became a statement. By calling out the Oscars’ recurring blind spots and speaking openly about ICE brutality, she used her platform to highlight systemic issues that extend well beyond Hollywood. Whether the Academy listens or not, Portman has made one thing clear: silence is no longer an option.
