Javier Bardem criticizes toxic masculinity and world leaders at Cannes

At the Cannes Film Festival, actor Javier Bardem delivered a sharp critique of global leaders and the pervasive culture of toxic masculinity during a press conference for his new film, "The Beloved." The Spanish actor, who plays a volatile, alcoholic filmmaker attempting to reconnect with his estranged daughter in the drama, linked the personal themes of the movie to broader political violence.

Bardem, 57, began by addressing gender-based violence in his home country, stating that Spain sees an average of two women killed monthly by their ex-husbands or ex-boyfriends. He described a culture that has normalized such acts, asking, "We are killing women because some men think they own them, they possess them."

He then expanded his criticism to international figures, naming former U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Bardem characterized their rhetoric and actions as emblematic of a dangerous, competitive masculinity. "That problem also goes to Mr. Trump and Mr. Putin and Mr. Netanyahu," he said, adding that it is "a fucking male toxic behavior that is creating thousands of dead people."