‘An orgy of antisemitism is overtaking the west’: Son of Saul’s László Nemes on Hollywood hypocrisy
László Nemes discusses his new film 'Orphan' and the resurgence of antisemitism in the West. He reflects on his acclaimed work 'Son of Saul' and the personal nature of his latest project, which explores his family's Holocaust history. Nemes emphasizes the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths about identity and heritage.
- ▪László Nemes is a Hungarian director known for his film 'Son of Saul', which won an Oscar for best foreign language film.
- ▪His new film 'Orphan' tells the story of a Jewish boy in Hungary during and after World War II, reflecting on themes of identity and trauma.
- ▪Nemes draws parallels between the film's narrative and his own family's experiences during the Holocaust.
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‘They ask if I’ve signed this or that petition’ … Nemes in London. Photograph: Shane Anthony Sinclair/Getty Images for BFIView image in fullscreen‘They ask if I’ve signed this or that petition’ … Nemes in London. Photograph: Shane Anthony Sinclair/Getty Images for BFILászló NemesInterview‘An orgy of antisemitism is overtaking the west’: Son of Saul’s László Nemes on Hollywood hypocrisyJonathan FreedlandHis extraordinary Auschwitz film won every award going. Now the Hungarian director is back with new drama Orphan, as well as a Jean Moulin biopic at Cannes. He talks about resurgent global prejudice – and refusing to be lectured by the film industry ‘overclass’Mon 18 May 2026 00.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleWe’ve been talking for less than five minutes when I spot the swastika.
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