Denzel Says Americans Are Being Manipulated by Both Sides in Politics

Source: Samir Hussein / Getty

Denzel Washington has shared his candid views on American politics, claiming that manipulation is widespread on both sides of the political spectrum. While promoting his latest film, Gladiator II, in an interview with The Sunday Times, Washington reflected on the challenges of governance in the modern era. “It’s so easy to stand outside America and say this and that,” he remarked. “Turn around, you know? Pick a country. Any one.”

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Discussing the nature of politics, Washington didn’t hold back. “It’s all promises unkept. And now, with the information age the way it is, left, right, whatever — they’ve all learned how to use these tools to manipulate.” He then quoted a line from his 1981 debut film, Carbon Copy: “‘Power to the people? Yeah, they had it once — it was called the Stone Age.’” Reflecting on today’s digital era, Washington added, “We’re all slaves to information now. We really are. So whatever you feel about the leaders, whether you think one’s crazy or the other’s sane, you’d better realize you’re being manipulated by both sides. Period.”

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Despite his critique of modern politics, Washington offered a simple remedy: “So go to the movies.” His latest performance as Macrinus, a former slave turned power player in Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II, has drawn widespread acclaim. Critics are already predicting awards buzz for Washington, who joins a star-studded cast that includes Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal. The sequel continues the story of Lucius, the son of Maximus from the original film, as he seeks to restore Rome’s glory.

Related Article: Denzel Washington On Getting Into Character For ‘Gladiator II’: ‘I’m Putting This Dress On, These Rings, And I’m Going Crazy’

Washington also addressed recent rumors about his retirement after reportedly outlining five final projects, including roles in Black Panther 3 and adaptations of Othello and King Lear. Setting the record straight, he told BuzzFeed, “I didn’t say I was going to retire. I said there has to be a level of interest for me. I’m more interested in getting behind the camera… I may have used the word ‘retire,’ but I’m in the return part of life — you learn, you earn, and you return.”

Denzel Washington Says Ryan Coogler Is Writing Him A Part For ‘Black Panther 3’

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