The fantasy flick 'Gods of Egypt' has been in the hot seat for its lack of diversity despite being a film loosely based on the history of an African country. Netizens and celebrities alike have reacted to how all four major characters were portrayed by Caucasians.
The backlash didn't go unnoticed, as director Alex Proyas and Lionsgate decided to address the controversy through statements obtained by The Hollywood Reporter.
"The process of casting a movie has many complicated variables, but it is clear that our casting choices should have been more diverse," Proyas said. "I sincerely apologize to those who are offended by the decisions we made."
The statement from Lionsgate was relatively similar to Alex Proyas', but with an added note: "Lionsgate is deeply committed to making films that reflect the diversity of our audiences. We have, can and will continue to do better."
The apologies have caught the attention of a certain black director, who immediately reacted on Twitter.
"This kind of apology never happens - for something that happens all the time. An unusual occurrence worth noting," Ava DuVernay tweeted before praising two other films for embracing diversity.
"GODS OF EGYPT makes me value Abrams' STAR WARS choices more. Makes me cheer more for Coogler's CREED. We all deserve icons in our own image," she tweeted.
'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' notably stars black actor John Boyega as one of the main protagonists. Although 'Creed' continues the story of Rocky Balboa, it focuses on a young African-American boxer (Michael B. Jordan) who wants to follow in his father's footsteps.
'Gods of Egypt' starred 'Game of Thrones' actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau as Horus, Brenton Thwaites as Bek, Gerard Butler as Set and Geoffrey Rush as Ra. 'Captain America: Civil War' star Chadwick Boseman had a minor role as Thoth, the God of Knowledge. The film is scheduled for release on February 26, 2016.
