Martin Freeman reacts to Jenna Ortega’s controversial sex scene in Miller’s Girl on Netflix

Despite Miller’s Girl reaching fourth place on the Netflix chart, lead actor Martin Freeman has addressed the criticism surrounding a sex scene featuring his co-star Jenna Ortega.

Despite a slight delay, Miller’s Girl has now arrived on Netflix after premiering in theaters earlier this year. While it may not be the top film of 2024, it has definitely sparked conversation, with some labeling the age difference between Freeman, 52, and Ortega, 21, as “disturbing.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vk2OJZHutBM

The main focus of the plot revolves around the intricate relationship between Jonathan Miller (played by Freeman), a creative writing professor, and Cairo Sweet (played by Ortega), an 18-year-old student. Upon its release in theaters, the film sparked controversy due to speculation of a sexual encounter between the two characters.

As she reads pages from a book, he stands over her and then bends her over the bed to touch her body.

During an interview with The Times, Freeman was questioned about the controversy surrounding the age gap, to which he responded that it is a complex and mature issue. The actor, known for his role in Marvel, also mentioned that it does not mean the issue is being praised and that sometimes, productions dealing with sensitive subjects can be affected by association.

“That is unfortunate,”Freeman stated. “Are we going to criticize Liam Neeson for his role in a film about the Holocaust?”

Martin Freeman and Jenna Ortega in Miller's Girl — Lionsgate

Freeman has responded to the age gap controversy

According to Jade Bartlett, the director of Miller’s Girl, Ortega’s portrayal of the character was so convincing that it frightened her.

“She completely frightened me. Her connection with Cairo was so intense and difficult to put into words,”she shared with What To Watch.

Cairo believes she is mature, but in reality, she is an isolated young woman living as a ghost in her own house. Her understanding of romance stems solely from outdated 18th and 19th-century literature and problematic old films. Despite this, she still considers herself to be a fully grown adult.

You can currently watch Miller’s Girl on Netflix. Additionally, be sure to check out all of the top new movies coming to streaming this month.