Anya Taylor-Joy, acclaimed for her roles in hits like The Queen’s Gambit, found herself at the center of controversy after her appearance at the Dune 2 premiere on Thursday.
The actress, who confirmed her role in the sequel alongside stars like Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, sparked criticism for her outfit choice, described by some as "problematic."
Taylor-Joy adorned a white floor-length gown accompanied by a hooded veil, reminiscent of traditional Muslim attire, particularly a burka and hijab.
While she made a stunning entrance on the red carpet in the Dior ensemble, fans were quick to point out the resemblance to garments worn by Muslim women, sparking a heated debate on social media platforms.
Critics argued that Taylor-Joy's outfit represented a form of cultural appropriation and Orientalism, referencing Edward Said's theory denoting the Western portrayal of Eastern cultures. "They will cosplay as Muslim women but never speak up for them," expressed one user on Twitter, capturing the sentiment echoed by many others.
Others condemned the choice as "disgusting" and highlighted the double standards at play. "So modesty in dressing is only oppressive and backwards when it’s practiced by Muslim women. Got it," remarked another Twitter user, reflecting on the perceived hypocrisy.
However, some defended Taylor-Joy, suggesting that the outfit could draw inspiration from various cultures and religions, including Catholicism. Amid the heated debate, one social media user urged restraint, emphasizing the need to understand the context behind Taylor-Joy's attire before passing judgment.
While Taylor-Joy's outfit stirred controversy, fellow star Zendaya earned praise for her cyborg-style ensemble, styled by Law Roach. Zendaya donned a vintage Thierry Mugler silver bodysuit, capturing attention and applause from fans and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Dune: Part Two boasts a star-studded cast including Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, and Austin Butler. Set in a desert landscape reminiscent of the Middle East, the film adaptation of Frank Herbert's fantasy novels promises an epic cinematic experience.
Taylor-Joy, long rumored to join the ensemble, confirmed her role with enthusiasm, expressing her excitement for the project and the opportunity to work with esteemed collaborators. As anticipation builds for the sequel, fans await further developments while the debate over Taylor-Joy's outfit choice continues to simmer.
