Alejandro Jodorowsky, the renowned 97-year-old Chilean filmmaker, has expressed his deep disdain for Steven Spielberg, whom he considers the director he hates the most in the history of cinema. In recent statements, Jodorowsky did not hold back in his criticism, labeling Spielberg as a “fascist” and accusing him of lacking honesty in his cinematic work.
An absolute hatred for Steven Spielberg
Jodorowsky, known for his surreal and provocative style, argues that the violence portrayed in Spielberg’s films is “sick” and manipulative. In his analysis, he highlights the artistic vision of Luis Buñuel, whom he considers an honest filmmaker who embraced his limitations, contrasting it with the lack of authenticity he attributes to Spielberg. “Buñuel was always honest. If he had limitations, then he made a limited film,” he stated, pointing out the fundamental difference in the ethics of their work.
Jodorowsky’s animosity towards Spielberg has manifested on several occasions. In an interview with Brights Film, he reiterated his aversion, stating that Spielberg “was the one who started this trend of making cinema the great spectacle and applauding special effects.” This viewpoint resonates with his broader critique of the contemporary trend in cinematography, which prioritizes spectacle over deep narrative.
Jodorowsky’s comments add to a broader debate about Spielberg’s impact on the film industry, a revered director who has grossed nearly $11 billion at the box office and won two Academy Awards, but who, according to his detractors, has contributed to a more commercial and less authentic approach to cinematic storytelling. Meanwhile, Jodorowsky’s words continue to resonate in the background of these debates, revealing the polarization that his work has created over the decades.
