“Angelina Jolie Stuns at San Sebastián Festival as She Admits She No Longer Recognizes America — Actress Turns Fierce Advocate for Free Speech Amid Turbulent Political Climate”
Angelina Jolie has never shied away from speaking her truth, whether through her films, humanitarian work, or personal battles. But her latest remarks at the 2025 San Sebastián International Film Festival (SSIFF) sent ripples far beyond the Spanish red carpet. While promoting her new film Couture, the Oscar-winning actress opened up about her growing concerns over freedom of speech in the United States, confessing in a striking moment that she “doesn’t recognize” her own country anymore.
The candid exchange came when Jolie was asked what she most fears today as both an artist and an American. With characteristic poise, she paused before delivering a statement that instantly made headlines: “I love my country, but at this time, I don’t recognise my country.” Her words drew gasps from the audience, many of whom were not expecting such raw honesty at a film festival Q&A.
Jolie elaborated on her remarks, noting that she believes freedom of expression is under threat in the U.S. “Anything, anywhere that divides or limits personal expressions and freedoms from anyone, I think is very dangerous,” she explained. Without directly naming names, her comments came in the wake of intense debates about media censorship, political discourse, and the temporary suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! after the host made controversial remarks following the shocking shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Calling these “very, very heavy times,” Jolie urged caution but also courage. “You have to be careful not to say things casually right now,” she added. “Because words carry weight — and silence, too, can be dangerous.”
Her remarks quickly began trending across social media, with fans praising her for using her platform to address broader societal issues rather than sticking to film promotion. Political analysts, meanwhile, saw Jolie’s comments as part of a growing wave of high-profile figures — from artists to athletes — openly worrying about the health of free speech in America.
At San Sebastián, however, Jolie balanced her serious reflections with moments of joy. She was radiant on the red carpet, dazzling in a custom couture gown that celebrated the very themes of her latest movie, which explores the intersection of art, fashion, and personal identity. The glamorous moment only heightened the contrast between the star’s Hollywood sparkle and the sobering reality of her words.
Still, this is not the first time Jolie has stepped beyond cinema to weigh in on global affairs. From her long-running work with the UN Refugee Agency to her outspoken advocacy for women’s rights, she has consistently framed herself not just as an entertainer but as a global citizen. Her latest intervention, however, strikes closer to home — questioning the values and freedoms of the very country that shaped her.
As the festival rolled on, it was clear that Jolie’s words had already overshadowed much of the buzz around Couture. Whether audiences agreed with her or not, the conversation she sparked underscored exactly what she was fighting for: the right to speak freely, even when — or especially when — it makes people uncomfortable.
