On this week’s episode of our podcast, we’re bringing you an illuminating conversation with actress, director, and producer Salma Hayek. The evening was a part of our ongoing Free Talks series, which is sponsored by HBO®. 

Hayek’s latest project, Kahlil Gibran’s The Prophet, on which she served as a producer and lent her voice, opened in select theaters last Friday. Based on the book of the same name, the film is set in a Mediterranean seaside village where Kamila (voiced by Hayek) cleans house for the exiled artist and poet Mustafa (Liam Neeson), but the more difficult job is keeping her free-spirited young daughter, Almitra (Quvenzhané Wallis), out of trouble. The trio embark on a journey meant to end with Mustafa’s return home—but first they must evade the authorities who fear that Mustafa’s words will incite rebellion.

Prior to last Friday’s release of Kahlil Gibran’s The Prophet, Salma Hayek joined former Variety critic Scott Foundas in front of a packed house in our amphitheater to discuss the film. Additionally, their wide-ranging discussion touched on issues of gender inequality, cynicism, and maintaining individuality in Hollywood.

Listen to the conversation below and make sure to subscribe to The Close-Up on iTunes so you never miss an episode. If you like what you hear, leave us a review! It helps us connect with more film lovers around the world and make the show even better.