Brief
Ava DuVernay warns ‘Hollywood is over’ while promoting documentary “14th” at London Film Festival
Speaking at the BFI London Film Festival, DuVernay argued that traditional studio models are collapsing and highlighted alternative financing for independent film.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Ava DuVernay appeared on stage during a Screen Talk at the 70th BFI London Film Festival on Monday, October 12, to discuss her career, her new Netflix documentary 14th, and the state of the film industry. The event runs through Oct. 18.
DuVernay said crowdfunding offers a practical route for independent creators, noting that “you put your movie up there, and there are all kinds of apps and sites that allow people who are like‑minded to do it… getting 20 people investing $5,000.” She added that such financing can be repaid through festival tours, YouTube releases or sales.
She then declared that “Hollywood is over,” arguing that studios are buying each other, collapsing, and that traditional pathways like Sundance deals are obsolete – citing Harvey Weinstein’s imprisonment as a sign of change. DuVernay asked, “What do we do now? What can we build now that’s new, that serves more kinds of people and kinds of stories?”
The filmmaker linked the urgency of her political work to the fear she associates with former President Donald Trump and ICE policies. She explained that 14th examines “how we got to a place where MAGA can be in power,” and that the film helped her channel “the rage… and the fear” she feels about democratic erosion.
When asked how she stays hopeful, DuVernay replied, “History is the key… there have been worse times than this.” She reflected on her ancestors’ resilience and said the documentary “saved me in a lot of ways.” The film was completed only two weeks before the festival appearance, and she said she does not yet know her next steps.
The BFI’s festival notes highlighted DuVernay’s previous work, including the series When They See Us and the film A Wrinkle in Time, underscoring her reputation as an award‑winning writer, director and producer.
Key facts
- Ava DuVernay spoke at the BFI London Film Festival on Oct. 12, 2026. (hollywoodreporter.com)
- She promoted her Netflix documentary "14th" and argued that Hollywood is over. (hollywoodreporter.com)
- DuVernay highlighted crowdfunding as a financing model, citing $5,000 investments from 20 people. (hollywoodreporter.com)
- She linked the film to concerns about the Trump administration and ICE policies. (hollywoodreporter.com)
- DuVernay said she completed "14th" two weeks before the festival appearance. (hollywoodreporter.com)
Sources
- [1] hollywoodreporter.com — originally reported as “Ava DuVernay Says That ’14th’ Saved Her and “Hollywood Is Over””
