“Miller’s Girl” Sparks Controversy Due to Age Gap Between Actors Jenna Ortega and Martin Freeman

Why is ‘Miller’s Girl’ controversial?

Jenna Ortega’s latest movie, ‘Miller’s Girl,’ is about to premiere on Netflix, but not without controversy. Released in theaters on January 26th, the film, directed by Jade Halley Bartlett, features Ortega alongside Martin Freeman in a tale that goes into the complexities of a student-teacher relationship.

However, it’s a specific scene portraying a sexual encounter between Ortega, 21, and Freeman, 52, that has ignited a firestorm of backlash due to the stark 31-year age gap between the actors.

‘Miller’s Girl’ follows Cairo, an 18-year-old student whose passion for writing intertwines with that of Mr. Miller, her teacher. As Cairo’s infatuation with her teacher deepens, the abuse of power begins, blurring the lines between academic mentorship and forbidden desire.

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Director Bartlett spared no detail in depicting the intimate encounters between the characters, a decision that has divided the public and sparked heated debate across social media platforms. Many viewers have denounced the film as “disgusting” and “uncomfortable,” expressing discomfort over the portrayal of a relationship with such a significant age difference, particularly given Jenna’s youthful features.

Questions regarding the appropriateness of romanticizing such power imbalances have been the main point of discussions surrounding the film. The scene in question unfolds in a bedroom, as Miller covers Cairo’s eyes before initiating a sexual encounter.

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Ortega, known for her roles in projects aimed at a younger audience, including the popular series ‘You’ and ‘Wednesday,’ has made a substantial leap in her career with ‘Miller’s Girl.’ In a recent interview, the actress revealed her initial surprise upon reading the script, acknowledging the discomfort she felt in tackling such a controversial storyline. However, she later expressed her commitment to exploring characters and narratives, pushing the boundaries of her craft.

“I remember that Cairo surprised me a lot because of what I had experienced in my career and I think many young girls can say the same. I think teenage girls are often written the same way, spoiled and no-nonsense, but Cairo is so smart and wise beyond her years that I was excited to explore her.”

The film’s intimacy coordinator, Kristina Arjona, has defended the production’s handling of sensitive scenes, affirming that Ortega’s comfort and consent were ensured throughout filming. “There were many, many people throughout this process. I am very aware of the talent of both of them and I make sure that we are constantly monitoring that at no time are their limits exceeded. And, again, making sure – especially with someone much younger – that they continually give consent.”

Critics have also weighed in on ‘Miller’s Girl.’ On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 45% audience score and a 32% from critics. Some have criticized the film’s handling of the teacher-student dynamic, arguing that it falls short in addressing the abuses of authority present in such relationships.

RELATED VIDEO: Check out a throwback interview with Jenna Ortega on Get it Girl!