Redmayne says reaction to Weinstein is ‘beyond important’

Actor Eddie Redmayne has said he hopes there is a “sea of change” in his industry as a result of the backlash against Harvey Weinstein.

In an interview with The Big Issue magazine, he said the reactions to the revelations were “beyond important”.

Actress Maisie Williams told the magazine she was “very proud” of the women who had spoken out. They were interviewed to mark the release of Early Man, the latest offering from Nick Park and Aardman.

The film is set somewhere near Manchester, with Redmayne and Williams voicing Stone Age hero Dug and Bronze Age football fanatic Goona.

Discussing the recent furore which originated in Hollywood, Williams said: “I am very, very proud of the women who have spoken out about the issues within this industry, but I am really glad we are not ignoring all other industries … We are under a microscope, so whenever something is going wrong in acting, everyone is aware of it.”

Redmayne said: “I think all of the conversations that are happening in our industry and across all industries at the moment are beyond important.

“But I think the success of female-directed, female-led films – the top three films of the year [for 2017] have had women in the lead roles – that is testament to the fact it is no longer an excuse.”