Benedict Cumberbatch is addressing a critical social issue. He is highlighting the male struggle with emotional management. The actor shared his views while promoting his new film.
His comments connect directly to his latest role. The film explores a grieving father's emotional turmoil. Cumberbatch believes this conversation is vital for modern society.
Cumberbatch's new movie is titled The Thing With Feathers. It is based on Max Porter's book about grief. The story follows a widowed father struggling with profound loss.
The character cannot process his emotions healthily. He sometimes yells at his children. Other times, he completely bottles up his feelings. According to The Independent, Cumberbatch sees this as a common male problem.
He links this emotional inability to dangerous online cultures. This includes incel and riot cultures. The actor emphasizes that men must learn to take responsibility for their feelings.
Cumberbatch also expressed deep concern for younger generations. He specifically criticized the unregulated use of smartphones. The actor stated that media is co-opting children at a very early age.
He warned against simply handing a smartphone to a child. He pointed to the negative effects already visible in an entire generation. His concern is supported by reporting from sources like Reuters on youth mental health.
Conversely, he praised children's natural capacity for empathy. He noted they offer love without being asked. This innate kindness, he fears, is under threat from digital devices.