Richard Linklater on Cinema and Politics

Acclaimed director Richard Linklater recently addressed questions regarding his views on Donald Trump and the current political climate. Linklater, known for films such as 'Boyhood' and the 'Before' trilogy, characterized his opinion on the former president as trivial, emphasizing his role as a filmmaker rather than a political commentator. While expressing general concern for the deterioration of democratic institutions, he declined to offer substantive commentary on specific political figures, predicting that future leadership would eventually address current challenges.

The conversation pivoted to his professional focus, highlighting his status as a major figure in American independent cinema. Linklater's upcoming film, 'Nouvelle Vague,' is scheduled for release in Spain on January 9. The project serves as a tribute to Jean-Luc Godard, one of Linklater's significant artistic influences. The interview underscores the director's preference for discussing the craft of filmmaking over engaging in political discourse, reinforcing his identity as a cinema-focused artist.

During a recent interview, filmmaker Richard Linklater immediately addressed the likelihood of being questioned about former President Donald Trump. Upon taking his seat, Linklater preemptively asked, "Usted también va a preguntarme por Donald Trump?" He followed this with a request to avoid the topic, stating, "No lo haga, por favor, ya lo han hecho sus colegas."

The director clarified that while he possesses an opinion on the matter, he considers it trivial. He firmly distinguished his professional identity, noting, "Soy cineasta, no politólogo" (I am a filmmaker, not a political commentator). Linklater expressed that he worries as a citizen about the deterioration of our democracies, but feels he has nothing substantial to add regarding the individual.

Despite his reluctance to discuss specific political figures, Richard Linklater offered a brief perspective on the current state of governance. He expressed confidence regarding the future of the political landscape, asserting, "Confío en que Trump se irá tarde o temprano y vendrá otro presidente a intentar arreglar lo que él ha roto."

Linklater concluded his remarks on the subject by stating that this was the extent of his commentary on the matter. He emphasized his desire to shift the focus of the conversation away from politics and back toward the arts, signaling a clear boundary between his personal concerns as a citizen and his professional life as a director.

Following his brief political remarks, Richard Linklater redirected the interview toward his primary passion: cinema. He noted that for his generation, film, alongside rock music, represented a fundamental passion. He remains a central figure in American independent cinema, celebrated for directing works such as 'Antes del amanecer' (Before Sunrise) and 'Boyhood'.

Attention was drawn to his latest project, the film 'Nouvelle Vague'. The movie is set to premiere in Spain on January 9. Linklater described the work as a homage to Jean-Luc Godard, identifying Godard as one of his idols. This upcoming release continues Linklater's tradition of engaging deeply with film history and influential directors.