Julia Roberts film stirs debate at Venice

Julia Roberts and filmmaker Luca Guadagnino faced pointed questions about complicity and undermining the feminist movement at a news conference for "After the Hunt" on Friday at the Venice Film Festival.

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The film, set in the world of higher education where Roberts plays a beloved philosophy professor, revolves around an accusation of misconduct. Her mentee, played by Ayo Edebiri, accuses her friend and colleague, played by Andrew Garfield, of crossing the line. Nora Garrett's screenplay does not offer easy or simple resolutions.

One reporter asked Roberts if she thought the film undermines the feminist movement and progress of the #MeToo movement.

"I don't necessarily think it revives an old argument of women being pitted against one another," Roberts said.

"After the Hunt" screened Thursday night for press and industry before it premiered Friday evening and quickly sparked debate around the festival, though most everyone seemed to agree about Roberts' outstanding performance. It received a six minute ovation after its premiere.