Controversy Surrounding Glenn Close in ‘The Deliverance’: Why Fans Are Upset
Lee Daniels’ latest film on Netflix, The Deliverance, is making waves—both for its gripping story and the controversy surrounding one of its leading actors, Glenn Close. Based on a true story about a Black family who faced a demonic haunting in 2011, the movie stars Andra Day, Mo’Nique, and Glenn Close, whose involvement has sparked heated discussions online.
The Role of Glenn Close: A Point of Contention
While The Deliverance has been praised for its intense and dramatic portrayal of supernatural events, some viewers have taken issue with the casting of Glenn Close. Close plays Alberta, the mother of Andra Day’s character, in what is otherwise a predominantly Black cast. Given the film’s themes and cultural context, some have questioned why a white actress was chosen for this pivotal role.
However, the casting decision, while noticeable to some, isn’t what stirred the most outrage. The real backlash arose from a particular line delivered by Close’s character during a climactic exorcism scene. While possessed by a demon, Close’s character, Alberta, utters a highly controversial line to her daughter: “I can smell your nappy p—y.”
This moment ignited a firestorm of reactions on social media, with many accusing the film of crossing a line. One person tweeted, “Lee Daniels, you will pay for your crimes for having Glenn Close say this.” The phrase struck a chord, especially given its racial undertones and the sensitivity of such language in the context of the film’s narrative.
Lee Daniels Defends His Vision
Despite the backlash, director Lee Daniels stands firmly behind the scene and Close’s portrayal of Alberta. Responding to the criticisms, Daniels said, “Had to do it,” indicating that the controversial line served a purpose in the film’s storytelling. Daniels also took to X (formerly Twitter) before the movie’s release, sharing a scene from the film with the caption, “Y’all are not ready for Glenn in this,” hinting at the character’s complexity and the intense scenes that awaited viewers.
In defense of Alberta’s character, Daniels remarked, “Every Black person knows an Alberta. She’s part of the fabric of our community, but we’ve never seen her on screen before.” He went on to praise Close for bringing the character to life, stating that her performance was nothing short of “magnificent.”
A Divisive Moment in Cinema
For some viewers, the decision to include such a line was unnecessary and offensive, particularly given the racial dynamics at play. Others argue that the line, while shocking, adds depth to the film’s exploration of demonic possession and the toll it takes on its victims. This moment has fueled discussions on how far films should go in depicting controversial or uncomfortable subjects, especially when race and identity are involved.
While The Deliverance may be a hit for Netflix, its controversy will likely continue to linger in the conversations of its audience. Glenn Close’s role and the scene in question have sparked important discussions about representation, race, and the limits of artistic expression. Whether audiences agree with Lee Daniels’ choices or not, The Deliverance has certainly left its mark, both as a compelling narrative and a lightning rod for cultural debate.
