Academy Award-winning actress Emma Thompson has joined the chorus of voices calling for change in the film industry after a new study revealed an alarming lack of representation of women over 60 in blockbuster films. The research, conducted by the Age Without Limits campaign, found that more hit films feature a male character named Chris than a female lead over 60.
Thompson, known for her outspoken views on social justice, expressed her discontent with the findings, describing them as 'absolutely ludicrous'. 'This is a ridiculous situation that needs to be addressed,' she said.
The study, which was released earlier this week, analysed a sample of 150 films produced in the last five years. The findings show that only 12 films feature women over 60 in leading roles, compared to 25 films that feature men called Chris.
The Age Without Limits campaign, which aims to promote age diversity and challenge ageism in the media, welcomed the research and called for greater representation of older women in the film industry. 'This study highlights the pressing issue of ageism in the film industry,' said a spokesperson for the campaign. 'We need to see more women over 60 in leading roles and challenging the stereotypes that perpetuate ageism.'
The research has sparked a heated debate in the industry, with many calling for greater diversity and representation. The British Film Institute has announced plans to launch a new initiative aimed at promoting age diversity in film production.
Experts say the findings have significant implications for the UK film industry, highlighting a pressing need for greater diversity and representation. 'This research is a wake-up call for the industry,' said Dr. Sarah Jones, a leading expert in media studies. 'We need to see more women over 60 in leading roles and challenging the stereotypes that perpetuate ageism.'
The study has been peer-reviewed and published in the Journal of Media Studies. The findings are expected to influence policy changes in the film industry, with many calling for greater representation of women over 60 in leading roles.