Mark Ruffalo Says ‘Boycott, Divest, Sanction, and Prosecute’ Israel

The Democratic Party's Leadership Crisis 00:14

"They are the absolute antithesis of what the Democratic Party needs right now."

• The conversation critiques current Democratic leaders, specifically mentioning figures like Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer, who are criticized for their alignment with Wall Street and big tech interests.

• The guests express skepticism about their capability to lead the party effectively in its present state, suggesting that they do not represent the necessary shift toward a more populist, anti-establishment approach that resonates with the party’s base.

Fear of Speaking Out in Hollywood 00:39

"When people tell you, 'I would love to speak out like you, Mark, but I won't get another role again,' there's that fear."

• Mark Ruffalo discusses the climate of fear among actors regarding expressing political views, pointing out that many in Hollywood hesitate to speak out due to potential repercussions on their careers.

• He shares his personal experience of facing significant backlash after speaking out, illustrating the pressures that creatives face when voicing their opinions publicly.

The Rise of Fascism and Civic Engagement 00:54

"If you take the truth and you bury it, put it in a box and bury it in the ground, it can't help but explode one day."

• The dialogue highlights a pressing concern about the current political landscape, equating the situation to a form of fascism that is emerging under the surface.

• The guest posits that society's truth must be confronted rather than suppressed, emphasizing the need for active civic engagement to combat authoritarian trends.

Mark Ruffalo's Background and Personal Beliefs 05:55

"If there's a religion that I relate to, that's probably the one that I relate to the most."

• Ruffalo reflects on his diverse religious upbringing, which includes Catholicism, evangelical Christianity, and the Baha'i Faith, noting how these influences shaped his worldview.

• He articulates that despite not ascribing to a particular faith now, he finds resonance with the principles of the Baha'i Faith, particularly in their emphasis on unity and community.

The Spectrum of Mark Ruffalo's Roles 06:09

"You keep getting back to it. It's funny because we just did a reading of 'All the President's Men' for a fundraiser."

• The discussion touches on Ruffalo's extensive filmography, particularly emphasizing his recurring role as a law enforcement figure across various films.

• He expresses a fascination with investigative roles and complex characters, suggesting that he enjoys the thrill of portraying nuanced individuals navigating intricate issues.

The Challenges of Accents in Acting 07:38

"Accent is probably not my forte."

• Ruffalo candidly discusses his struggle with accents in roles, sharing an amusing anecdote about being questioned on his British accent during an interview.

• He reflects on the importance of character authenticity and the challenges that come with adapting to various dialects in film and television.

The Experience of Being in Marvel Movies 08:32

"Just having the continuity... You make these tight-knit groups and then you break apart, and rarely ever do you have the kind of continuity that you do over a decade or more."

• Mark Ruffalo discusses the unique experience of being part of the Marvel franchise, highlighting the sense of continuity and camaraderie that comes from working with the same cast and crew over many films. He contrasts this with the often fragmented nature of acting in other projects where actors continuously move from one role to another without long-term relationships.

• He describes being an Avenger as his 'steady job,' which he never thought he would attain. He expresses a genuine enjoyment of the experience, underscoring the fun and dedication involved in making superhero films.

Different Universes in Marvel Films 09:33

"What I love about Marvel is they really do let the director create a whole other world."

• Ruffalo appreciates the creative freedom given to directors within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, allowing each film to explore different themes and styles. For instance, he notes the significant differences in tone between movies like "The Avengers" and "Thor: Ragnarok," saying that each film feels like a unique universe.

• This variety not only keeps the experience fresh for actors but also makes the storytelling richer for the audience, allowing for diverse interpretations within the superhero genre.

The Impact of Marvel Films on Audiences 11:36

"I have never sat in one of those movies where I’ve seen people literally screaming, crying, beating their chests."

• He shares his observations of audience reactions at Marvel film screenings, recalling an intense experience during "Endgame" where viewers became extremely emotional, shouting and expressing their excitement and connection to the story.

• This kind of passionate response reflects the films' power to resonate with audiences, creating memorable moments that stick with people for years, despite criticism from some traditional filmmakers about the legitimacy of superhero films.

The Culture of Marvel and Personal Connection 11:31

"I’m having the best time... I love the whole culture of it."

• Ruffalo expresses his deep appreciation for the entire Marvel filmmaking culture, including the crews and the collaborative spirit that defines the work environment.

• He relates how his children viewed his role as the Hulk and how much joy it brought them when they were younger, illustrating the personal significance of being part of such a beloved franchise.

The Need for Superheroes in Today's World 16:52

"What kind of character from the Avengers movies or from the Marvel universe does the world need right now to fix so many of our problems?"

• Mark Ruffalo discusses the pressing issues facing the world and questions the need for more superheroes to tackle these problems. He expresses a hope for collective action, stating that “it needs all of them,” illustrating an urgent call for unity in the face of crisis.

The Role of Mythology in Understanding Humanity 17:21

"We're hardwired for gods and monsters. This is why we created mythology."

• Ruffalo suggests that humanity's fascination with mythical figures stems from a deep-rooted need for storytelling to explain complex realities. He implies that the narratives presented in superhero films resonate with current societal struggles and connect back to ancient human needs for understanding and purpose.

The Environmental Crisis and Pop Culture References 18:36

"There are some environmentalists who think what Thanos did is the right thing."

• The conversation touches on the environmental implications of the superhero narrative. Ruffalo highlights problematic interpretations of Thanos's actions, questioning why such a drastic measure as eliminating half the universe was deemed necessary instead of creating abundance for everyone.

Personal Experiences Shaping Political Activism 20:50

"Some of it comes from my dad, who was very much a humanitarian."

• Ruffalo reflects on how his upbringing influenced his political views. He shares memories of his father's humanitarian values, emphasizing the importance of supporting those who are less fortunate. This foundation has driven his commitment to environmental activism throughout his life.

The Impact of Fracking and Community Actions 22:29

"I was living in the gaslands, the sacrificial zone for the American fossil fuel industry."

• Ruffalo recounts his awakening to environmental issues when he became involved in the anti-fracking movement after witnessing the devastating effects of industrial practices on his community. This pivotal moment solidified his role as an advocate for environmental rights and accountability.

Critique of Political Leadership and Accountability 24:35

"To see Obama come in and not hold any of those people accountable, I mean, we're talking war crimes here."

• Ruffalo criticizes former President Obama's administration for failing to hold accountable those responsible for war crimes, drawing parallels to ongoing issues in Gaza. He expresses frustration over recurring leadership failures and the cycle of accountability negligence in politics.

American Accountability and Historical Context 25:34

"What we did was set up our country for absolutely no consequences for actions."

• The discussion highlights the lack of accountability that the United States has faced regarding its military actions, particularly in Iraq. This failure to acknowledge the consequences has allowed figures like Donald Trump to rise in popularity without facing scrutiny for past decisions.

• Trump's comments during the 2016 election, where he criticized former President Jeb Bush for the Iraq War, reflect a significant shift in public sentiment. Many Americans felt disillusioned and believed that the concept of endless wars in the Middle East was immoral.

The Aftermath of War and Public Opinion 26:30

"The American public knew that war was completely immoral...and they've been lied to."

• The conversation emphasizes that the American public has become aware of the unethical nature of the Iraq War and feels deceived by political leaders. This awareness has contributed to a broader distrust towards government narratives.

• Factors such as the financial crisis of 2008 and the lack of progressive voices within the Democratic Party are seen as contributing to a volatile political environment that enables populist movements.

The Role of Populism in American Politics 27:20

"You kill any kind of talk of socialism, which is what the antidote to populism is."

• The dialogue underscores the Democratic Party's failure to embrace leftist, progressive ideologies, which could counteract the rise of populism. With leaders who align too closely with big donors and Wall Street, the party risks ignoring the genuine concerns of the public.

• By neglecting radical changes and progressive policies, the Democratic Party leaves a vacuum that populism fills, often with divisive and dangerous elements such as white nationalism.

The Influence of Money in Politics 30:26

"Once the Democrats became, well, it started with Citizens United...they spend all of their time raising funds."

• The impact of large donations on political behavior is a central theme. Politicians are often beholden to wealthy donors who can sway decisions and prioritize fundraising over serving constituents.

• This cycle of influence creates a disconnect between elected officials and the public, as politicians cater to the interests of their big-money supporters rather than addressing grassroots concerns.

Moral Integrity and Historical Judgment 33:11

"We need people to be grounded in their moral integrity right now because that's where credibility is."

• The necessity for public figures, including politicians and celebrities, to maintain moral clarity is emphasized. As society progresses, individuals are increasingly judged by their actions and positions in times of crisis.

• The importance of integrity in leadership is highlighted as a factor that could determine the future of political movements and public trust. As history will evaluate these actions, it calls for a collective accountability and awareness in public life.

The Importance of Resistance Against Oppression 34:36

"To have such a strong resistance to something, you have to have an oppressive force."

• Mark Ruffalo emphasizes that strong resistance often arises from the existence of oppressive forces, highlighting the relationship between power and the struggle for rights.

Breaking Down Ignorance 34:59

"I started to break down this system of ignorance that is constantly being reinforced."

• Ruffalo reflects on his journey of educating himself about issues related to oppression, admitting that he was once part of the ignorantly propagandized. His commitment to unraveling this ignorance fueled his activism.

The Experience of Being Called Anti-Semitic 36:23

"I was being called an anti-Semite because I was supporting the Palestinians."

• Mark describes the backlash he faced for expressing solidarity with Palestinians, revealing the complexity of the accusations. He clarifies that supporting one group's human rights does not equate to being against another.

Diverse Responses to Activism in Hollywood 37:54

"A lot of people tell me they are worried about being canceled."

• Ruffalo notes the fear some individuals in Hollywood have about speaking out due to potential career repercussions. This fear often silences voices, although he acknowledges a shift as more individuals begin to advocate courageously.

Collective Action and Resistance 38:29

"We will not allow our work and our art to be complicit to whitewash apartheid."

• Ruffalo is part of an initiative signed by over 1300 film workers, vowing not to support projects that perpetuate or profit from injustices. This collective effort seeks to challenge the status quo in the entertainment industry.

Shift in Conversation Around Genocide 39:10

"This is absolutely a genocide."

• Mark staunchly reaffirms his position on the situation, rejecting past hesitations. He underscores the critical responsibility to accurately label and condemn injustices faced by Palestinians.

The Need for Economic Action 42:05

"Boycott, divest, sanction, and prosecute. That's the only thing that's going to stop this."

• Ruffalo advocates for economic measures as key to driving change. He emphasizes that traditional forms of protest may no longer suffice, suggesting that economic pressure is essential to address and halt oppressive actions.

Compassion Beyond Borders 42:33

"Why can't you just care about kids being killed?"

• He reflects on the need for a universal approach to compassion, dispelling tribalism in humanitarian crises. Mark's sentiment is that collective concern for suffering, regardless of political affiliations, should be paramount.

Reflecting on Violence and Retribution 43:34

"How many thousands of people have to die in order to have retribution for that?"

• Ruffalo questions the asymmetry of violence and calls for a reevaluation of responses to acts of terror. He highlights the devastating cycle of violence and retribution, urging consideration of the innocent lives affected.

Lack of Palestinian Representation in Media 44:24

"Most hosts go, 'Let's just get the IDF spokesman on...' No Palestinian voices on our Sunday morning shows. It's a travesty."

• Mark Ruffalo highlights the significant absence of Palestinian perspectives in mainstream media, particularly during Sunday news shows, which are dominated by Israeli officials and military representatives. He criticizes this imbalance as a serious oversight that fails to represent a crucial part of the ongoing narrative.

Pressure in the Industry Regarding Political Discussion 44:40

"I've had people in the industry say, 'Hey, it's good for your career if you shut up.'"

• Ruffalo talks about the pressure he feels from various circles in the entertainment industry to remain silent about contentious political issues, particularly regarding Palestine. While he emphasizes that he has never received direct orders to stop speaking out, he acknowledges the pervasive atmosphere of caution among his peers.

Changes in Personal Relationships after October 7th 45:56

"People who I thought were friends of mine... and they're not anymore. I can't relate to them."

• The aftermath of the events on October 7th significantly impacted Ruffalo's relationships. He reflects on how friends who once held similar beliefs have diverged, adopting extreme views about Palestinians. This emotional disconnect illustrates how the ongoing conflict can create rifts in personal relationships.

Reactions from Hollywood and the Public 46:46

"There are people in Hollywood defending genocide... and then you have people like you who are speaking out."

• Ruffalo discusses the contrasting attitudes in Hollywood regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where some defend actions perceived as genocidal while others, like him, choose to take a stand against it. He expresses concern over the apathy of many colleagues who remain silent, urging a need for more outspoken advocacy within the industry.

Voter Sentiments Among Arab Communities 49:01

"They were not having it... I cannot bring myself to vote for someone who my family was wiped out."

• Ruffalo recounts his experience in Michigan where he engaged Arab communities during campaign efforts, noting their discontent with political candidates. The sentiment expressed reflects a deep-seated frustration and hurt, as many feel disconnected from politicians due to the ongoing conflict and its personal ramifications.

Reflections on Current Political Climate 51:34

"With every action, there's a reaction... we will have a revitalization, re-imagination of democracy."

• Discussing the present political landscape, Ruffalo remains hopeful for a future where democracy can be revitalized following the tumultuous events of recent years. He hints at the resurgence of progressive ideas and candidates who are reconnecting with the electorate.

Podcast Subscription Invitation 53:15

"Make sure you head over to zateo.com and become a subscriber."

• An invitation is extended to listeners to subscribe to Zateo, emphasizing the importance of supporting independent journalism during times when mainstream media may not be adequately fulfilling its role.

• Encouraging support for independent journalism aligns with a broader goal of fostering accountability and diverse perspectives in media coverage.

Introduction of Hosts and Production Team 53:27

"Our executive producer is Kieran Alvi, our senior producer and editor is Frank Capello."

• Mandy Hassan introduces herself and Mark Ruffalo as the co-hosts of the episode, establishing a sense of camaraderie and collaboration.

• The production team is acknowledged, showcasing the collaborative effort behind the podcast, which includes roles like the executive producer, senior producer, and music composer.

• The mention of specific individuals, such as Kieran Alvi and Frank Capello, emphasizes their contributions to the quality and success of the production, which reflects a professional and dedicated team behind the podcast.