Polanski's 'The Palace

Roman Polanski, a renowned filmmaker, has encountered significant hurdles in securing distribution rights for his new film, "The Palace," in select countries due to his controversial past. This situation prompts a reflection on the delicate balance between art and morality in the film industry.

Polanski's history includes a 1977 conviction for raping a 13-year-old girl, a crime he admitted to. Furthermore, the #MeToo movement shed light on additional allegations of sexual assault against him. These events have left a lasting stain on his reputation and continue to affect the reception of his work.

Film Synopsis

"The Palace" is a side-splitting comedy set in a lavish Swiss hotel, featuring top-notch actors like Mickey Rourke, John Cleese, Oliver Masucci, Fanny Ardant, and Joaquim De Almeida. Despite its charm and fantastic cast, this film faces distribution challenges in key markets.

Distribution Dilemma

Luca Barbareschi, producer of "The Palace," has secured distribution rights in continental Europe but not in France, Britain, or the United States. This raises ethical questions in the film industry due to the involvement of renowned actors from these countries and the elusive distribution.

Past Troubles

Polanski's acclaimed film "An Officer And A Spy" wowed audiences at the 2019 Venice Film Festival. However, it never reached cinemas in the US, UK, Australia, or New Zealand, underscoring ongoing distribution challenges in his work.

Streaming Success

Interestingly, Polanski's movies find a receptive audience on streaming platforms like Netflix, where they generate substantial revenue. This success on streaming platforms raises questions about the inconsistency between cinematic and digital distribution.

Barbareschi expresses his frustration and calls for fair treatment of artists, suggesting that there should be no moral judgment on art. This viewpoint underscores the ongoing debate surrounding Polanski's work.