We Need to Talk About Bryan

In today’s climate, it’s difficult to imagine someone in Hollywood not being held accountable for their actions. We’re fed a narrative that things are changing, that the world of celebrity is becoming more open, that stars are more willing and determined to protect the vulnerable. With the rise of the MeToo hashtag – the bracelet of which was worn by many at this year’s Golden Globes – and events such as James Gunn being removed from Guardians of the Galaxy for offensive tweets, it seems that we are in a changing world.

Which is why, for some, it was a shock when Bohemian Rhapsody took home the Golden Globe for Best Picture this year, despite the murky reputation of its director, Bryan Singer. Although the film itself has been a huge success, Singer has been accused of multiple sexual assaults, including, most horrifically, from children that he has worked with. He has also been associated with convicted sex offender Marc Collins-Rector, earning Singer a not-so-honorable mention in the acclaimed documentary An Open Secret.

Bryan Singer

Despite this, Bohemian Rhapsody has been a huge success, with little discourse taking place until now. Even Rami Malek, the star of the film, did not mention Singer in his acceptance speech. Many have been asking – why is this okay? Why are these gracious Hollywood stars, who are so often to be seen telling us little people how to behave, turning a blind eye once again?

Well. There’s a couple of reasons.

Singer, as some may know, only really directed about 50% of the film. He was removed halfway through. However, his name is still on the posters. His mark is still on the work. According to the Directors Guild of America, a film cannot credit multiple directors, despite Dexter Fletcher taking over the role. Singer’s removal was apparently due to clashes with Malek, as well as bad behavior on set.

It can also be pointed out that Singer has never been convicted for any of these accusations and denies them to this day. 

It is interesting, nonetheless, to see that such a film with such an unfortunate stamp has made it this far with little to no controversy. The initial role of Singer as director, and the acceptance of the cast and crew to work with him, has been deemed problematic. Meanwhile, in recent months we have seen people removed from projects and their careers ruined for far less. Why, in-between emotional and seemingly heartfelt acceptance speeches where they address today’s political climate and how we can all make a difference, is Hollywood allowing this? Is it irrelevant, considering Singer’s involvement in this film was technically limited? Will Malek and the rest of the cast address this further?

Considering Bryan Singer has been nominated for a BAFTA for his directing role in Bohemian Rhapsody, surely only time will tell.