The Making of Quixote

[petersio]

Terry is certainly entitled to his opinion, but it is hard, even painful, for me to articulate how disappointed I am in his comments. Most glaring is his lack of empathy for young actresses being taken advantage of by powerful men. Without a doubt, individual situations can be nuanced and complex. And yet there can be little doubt as to the underlying truth of the #MeToo movement. Surely, women deserve to feel safe and stand on their own talents.

As a director, Mr. Gilliam has long been my hero for his vision and for being a maverick. He has distinguished himself by his tenacity and fearlessness. Saying outlandish things is one of his trademarks. This recent episode is different, however. Such comments strike me as being incredibly thoughtless and selfish. I think of the hundreds of talented individuals who gave their heart and soul to help create his long-delayed Quixote film. Their efforts will have been extremely slighted if the film gets a limited release. A shadow has been cast over the whole endeavor and over the director himself. Reaching the end of his career this might have been one final chance to achieve the sort of critical acclaim that has often eluded him. Instead, many of his fans, myself included, shake our heads and wish it was all a dream.