The 'Twitterati' found itself divided on Tuesday after Jennifer Lawrence stepped out in a gown designed by Versace for the photocall of her upcoming film, Red Sparrow, in London. The dress didn't spur a debate about the sartorial choice J Law had made, but rather led people into addressing a deeper issue - one that highlights how male and female actors are treated differently in Hollywood.
Jennifer Lawrence who has been in London over the last few days wore a velvet Versace Pre Fall '18 gown with a plunging neckline and high slit for the photocall. Her Versace gown earned her the admiration of fashion enthusiasts, but the fact that that was all she was wearing in London's exceedingly low temperatures while her male co-stars were nicely bundled up in overcoats and boots has left many feeling outraged.
English writer and journalist, Helen Lewis was amongst the first to point this out on Twitter, labelling the picture which shows the distinct contrast between Jennifer Lawrence and her male co-stars "quitely depressing".
Helen's tweet, which read "This is such a quietly depressing (and revealing) image. Not least because I've been outside today and it's bloody FREEZING." has sparked a conversation about the double standards in Hollywood.
This is such a quietly depressing (and revealing) image. Not least because I've been outside today and it's bloody FREEZING. pic.twitter.com/BRnmgKJ5wY
— Helen Lewis (@helenlewis) February 20, 2018
"True equality means either Jennifer Lawrence getting a coat, or Jeremy Irons having to pose for a photocall in assless chaps." Lewis continued on Twitter.
True equality means either Jennifer Lawrence getting a coat, or Jeremy Irons having to pose for a photocall in assless chaps.
— Helen Lewis (@helenlewis) February 20, 2018
Many joined in on the debate and responded to Helen. But the response was divided.
While some were furious about the fact that Jennifer Lawrence wasn't "allowed" to wear a coat, others pointed out how it could have entirely been her own choice to "show off' her gorgeous dress.
My first thought: social expectations. The men all warmly dressed up, and then a beautiful, cut, deep, black dress which must be held up by goosebumps...
— The Letter Writer (@LetterwriterMe) February 20, 2018
Why are the men dressed like they’re off to Twickenham but the woman isn’t allowed a coat? Or trousers. Or a jumper.
— craig burston (@skipratmedia) February 20, 2018
Surely the biggest female star in Hollywood can insist on a jacket to no opposition. Surely she may have wanted to show of the beautiful dress. Surely she is not twitter's infant child.
— Cowboy (@JarodJoseph) February 20, 2018
Surely it was her choice to dress as she does or maybe she's getting paid to showcase that designers work, either way you're making a mountain out of a molehill
— bluechip_bespoke_guru (@CC_fab_app) February 20, 2018
Maybe she was offered a coat and declined? Maybe she/they wanted her to appear more "powerful" than her male costars? It's getting a bit ridiculous they way everything gets read into. She does not seem like a meek person. If she wanted a coat she would ask for one.
— jennifer818 (@dobergirl) February 20, 2018
Some also pointed out how Jennifer Lawrence did in fact arrive in a coat and sunglasses and only took them off for the pictures.
pic.twitter.com/HJIEDa4X03
— Alessandra (@MrsMintMav) February 20, 2018
While others took this opportunity to create meme-worthy images.
Later that day. pic.twitter.com/bksCArr5Mm
— A Kelly (@AidanKelly4) February 20, 2018
Robin William's daughter, Zelda Williams also joined the debate, suggesting that women are expected to look a certain way in order to be considered 'hard working'.
"Yup. And the sheer number of men I know who come to press junkets freshly rolled out of bed when their female counterparts have been up since 4am going thru hair & makeup. The expectations women are expected to fill physically in order to be considered 'hard working' are ten fold." tweeted Zelda.
Yup. And the sheer number of men I know who come to press junkets freshly rolled out of bed when their female counterparts have been up since 4am going thru hair & makeup. The expectations women are expected to fill physically in order to be considered 'hardworking' are ten fold. https://t.co/lORhixC9t7
— Zelda Williams (@zeldawilliams) February 20, 2018
Only a few days ago Jennifer Lawrence was caught in a controversy post the BAFTAs. Lawrence received criticism that she was "rude" to BAFTA host Joanna Lumley after she introduced her on stage.
After Lumley introduced Lawrence as "the hottest actress on the planet" Jennifer walked on stage and thanked the host saying, "Hi, that was a bit much but thank you, Joanna."
People did not take to Jennifer's response well and threw some ire her way on social media.
I hope this is Joanna Lumley's response to Jennifer Lawrence after the 'too much' comment. #EEBAFTAs pic.twitter.com/wUV7GTCtQ0
— NinaNoo (@NinaYNoo) February 18, 2018
Jennifer Lawrence: You're a bit up yourself luv. And do NOT be rude to Joanna!! #EEBAFTAs
— Stephi King (@StephiKing1) February 18, 2018
Jennifer has been in London for the last few days promoting her upcoming film, Red Sparrow, in which she plays a Russian spy. She also attended the premier of the film in London two days ago.
Only a few days and so many controversies. We sure hope Red Sparrow is worth it!
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