(OPINION) Actor Chris Evans believes people concerned over the inclusion of same-sex content in films are “idiots” who should simply be disregarded. Evans, known for his role as Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, stars in Disney Pixar’s latest animated feature, “Lightyear,” a movie about the iconic “Toy Story” character Buzz Lightyear.
The film features a same-sex relationship and kiss and, as a result, has drawn the ire of individuals concerned about including such content in a kids’ movie. “The real truth is, those people are idiots,” Evans told Reuters Television through a smirk. “Throughout history, you can see, every time there’s been social advancement, as we wake up, the American story, the human story is one of constant social awakening and growth, and that’s what makes us good.”
The actor, who voices Lightyear, said there will always be people “who are afraid and unaware and trying to hold on to what was before.” Rather than engage these individuals, he encouraged people to ignore them entirely. “Those people die off like dinosaurs,” Evans told the outlet. “I think the goal is to pay them no mind, march forward, and embrace the growth that makes us human.”
This reaction — far from a one-off discussion about “Lightyear” — appears to be part of a strategy in addressing the controversy surrounding the film, as the cast and those behind the movie continue to speak about the same-sex furor quite openly.
In a separate interview with ET Canada, Evans said the pushback, including banning the film in 14 Middle Eastern countries, is “frustrating” but that it “feels good to be a part of something that is making social progress.” Actress Keke Palmer, who also stars in the film, called the adverse reaction “terrible” but pledged to push through it. Others involved with the project agreed and defended the movie. READ MORE
