Madonna’s Evita Role Sparks Death Threats in Argentina

Here’s a breakdown of the text, focusing on the key events and sentiments surrounding the filming of “Evita” in Argentina in 1996:

Main Conflict: The filming of “Evita” starring Madonna in argentina in 1996 sparked significant controversy and even threats against Madonna due to strong feelings about Eva Perón (Evita).

Key Points & Timeline:

* February 1996: The film’s production faced opposition from staunch Perón supporters who felt Madonna was an inappropriate choice to portray evita. Graffiti appeared saying “Long live Evita! Out with Madonna!”
* Threats & Security Concerns: A former secretary of Perón, Clara Marin, reportedly threatened Madonna’s life. This caused significant worry, with the film’s manager considering pulling Madonna out of the country. A congresswoman even attempted to have Madonna, the director, and the entire film crew declared persona non grata.
* Official Reactions: The then-president of Argentina, Carlos Menem, publicly denounced the film. The interior Minister requested increased security for Madonna.
* Producer’s Defense: The film’s producer, Andy Vajna, dismissed the threats as “lies” and emphasized the economic benefits the production brought to Argentina.
* Madonna’s Approach: Madonna attempted to understand Evita by interviewing people who had worked with her, focusing on personal details (eating habits, interactions with Perón) to inform her performance. She remained silent on the threats in public appearances.
* Fan Support: A group of Madonna’s Argentine fans organized a counter-protest, defending her role and criticizing the threats against her. A poll showed that 62% of Argentines believed she was a good fit for the role.
* Successful Filming: Despite the controversy, filming was completed in Buenos Aires, utilizing locations like the federal district and a train station.

Underlying Themes:

* Perónism’s enduring Legacy: The text highlights the deep and lasting influence of Perónism in Argentine society, even decades after Perón’s death. Evita remained a powerful and sensitive figure.
* National Identity & Portrayal: The conflict underscored the importance of accurately and respectfully portraying national icons like Evita. many felt a foreign actress couldn’t capture the essence of the Argentine leader.
* Political and Artistic Freedom: The attempts to ban the filming raise questions about censorship and artistic expression.
* Public Image & Controversy: madonna’s already controversial persona amplified the backlash,as she was seen by some as an unsuitable choice to portray a revered figure.

Sources cited: Variety, The Washington Post, Associated Press, and YouTube videos (implied to be related to the film/event).

Why did Madonna receive death threats after being cast as Eva Perón in the 1996 film *Evita*?

Madonna’s Evita Role Sparks Death Threats in Argentina

The casting of Madonna as Eva Perón in the 1996 film Evita ignited a firestorm of controversy in Argentina, extending far beyond simple artistic debate. The backlash wasn’t merely criticism; it escalated into genuine death threats against the pop icon, highlighting the deeply sensitive and nationalistic feelings surrounding the figure of Evita. This article delves into the reasons behind the intense reaction, the specifics of the threats, and the lasting impact of the controversy.

The Weight of a National Icon: Understanding Evita Perón

To understand the Argentine response, it’s crucial to grasp the importance of Eva Perón. Known affectionately as “Evita,” she remains a hugely polarizing yet undeniably powerful figure in Argentine history.

* Champion of the Descamisados: Evita rose from humble beginnings to become a beloved advocate for the working class, the descamisados (the “shirtless ones”). Her social welfare programs and passionate speeches resonated deeply with the poor and marginalized.

* Political Power & Controversy: She wielded considerable political influence during her husband Juan Perón’s presidency, becoming a symbol of Peronism – a political movement still relevant in Argentina today. However, her methods and the Perón regime were also accused of authoritarianism and corruption.

* A Mythologized Figure: After her premature death in 1952 at the age of 33,Evita quickly became a mythologized figure,a saint-like icon for some and a manipulative opportunist for others. This complex legacy made any portrayal subject to intense scrutiny.

Why Madonna? The Initial Outrage

The announcement of Madonna’s casting was met with immediate and widespread condemnation in Argentina. Several factors fueled the outrage:

* Perceived Lack of Acting Credentials: Many Argentines felt madonna, primarily known as a pop singer, lacked the acting depth to portray such a complex and revered historical figure. They believed a native Argentine actress would be more fitting.

* American Interpretation of Argentine History: There was a strong sense that an American artist was attempting to interpret and profit from a uniquely Argentine story, potentially distorting its meaning.

* Madonna’s Image vs. Evita’s: Madonna’s frequently enough provocative and sexually charged public image clashed sharply with the image of Evita as a dignified and devoted champion of the poor. Critics argued Madonna’s persona trivialized Evita’s legacy.

* National Pride & sovereignty: The casting was seen as a slight to Argentine national pride and a violation of cultural sovereignty.

The Escalation: Death Threats and Protests

The initial protests quickly escalated. Demonstrations erupted outside the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires, and calls for a boycott of the film grew. More disturbingly, Madonna began receiving credible death threats.

* Specific Threats: Reports detailed threats sent directly to Madonna, warning her not to set foot in Argentina. Some threats referenced the Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo, a group of mothers who protested the disappearance of their children during the military dictatorship, suggesting a connection between Madonna’s portrayal and past political trauma.

* Security Concerns: security for Madonna was considerably increased during filming, which took place primarily in Argentina. The production team faced constant challenges from protesters and heightened security risks.

* political Involvement: Some political groups actively fueled the controversy, using it as an opportunity to criticize the Perón government and American cultural influence.

Madonna’s Response and the Film’s Release

Madonna addressed the controversy in several interviews, defending her portrayal and expressing respect for Evita’s legacy. She stated she understood the sensitivity surrounding the role and had dedicated herself to researching and understanding Evita’s life.

* Research & Planning: Madonna reportedly spent considerable time studying Evita’s life, visiting Argentina, and working with dialect coaches to accurately portray the character.

* Filming Challenges: Despite the threats and protests, filming continued, albeit under tight security. The production faced delays and disruptions due to ongoing demonstrations.

* Box Office & Critical Reception: Evita was a commercial success, grossing over $148 million worldwide. Though, its reception in Argentina remained mixed. While some Argentines acknowledged Madonna’s effort, many continued to criticize the film’s historical accuracy and its portrayal of Evita.

Lasting Impact and Legacy of the Controversy

The Evita controversy remains a meaningful cultural moment in both Argentina and the United States.

* Ongoing Debate: The debate over