Keira Knightley Takes A Beating In New Anti-Violence PSA

Access Hollywood - April 2, 2009 11:14 AM PDT
Story photo: Keira Knightley Takes A Beating In New Anti-Violence PSAKeira Knightley in a shocking anti-bbuse PSA for UK's Women's AidWomen's AidAccess Hollywood

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Keira Knightley has joined forces with her "Atonement" and "Pride & Prejudice" director, Joe Wright, to take a stand against domestic violence in a shocking new PSA.

The two-minute short film, which debuts on April 6 in the UK, depicts Knightley acting in a scene where her boyfriend attacks her. After the first hit, Knightley breaks character and looks at the camera, saying, "Sorry, we didn't agree to that," referring to the sudden strike to her face.

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The violence continues and intensifies, as the actress is thrown to the floor and repeatedly kicked, as the words, "Domestic violence - isn't it time someone called cut?" appear on the screen.

"I wanted to take part in this advert for Women's Aid because while domestic violence exists in every section of society we rarely hear about it," Knightley said in a statement. "We may not think we know someone who has experienced domestic violence, but this does not mean that it is not happening."

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Knightley and director Wright reportedly donated their time for free to make the PSA.

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comments 1-10 of 14  |< newest · < newer · older > · oldest >|  hide comments · post a comment
  • guitarplayer
    i just want do her hard from behind!!! nuff said :0)
    report abuseposted April 9, 2009 4:48 PM PDT
  • Elizabeth
    In high school I was in Peer Counseling. I did a skit on domestic violence where one of my classmates played my boyfriend & I let him hit me & kick me. My teacher said it was too real to show the other students. I said that was my point. The only way to get through to someone is to make it as real as possible. After I had girls come up to me & tell me it was happening to t
    report abuseposted April 4, 2009 5:15 PM PDT
  • lisa d
    Guess what? This isn't a pretty issue, so why not show it for what it is? Sometimes people need to be shocked to make them open their eyes to reality. Sorry people, but the world ain't always a pretty place so grow up! I for one say bravo to all those involved with this PSA.
    report abuseposted April 3, 2009 8:06 PM PDT
  • Jonny Rev
    You know, life is ugly as hell. Showing the ugliness to those who don't usually see past the end of their own noses is not only NOT distasteful or disgusting, but rather it is a brave and important depiction of the reality of millions around the world. Way to go Kiera. You have done the right thing, as evidenced by the strength of the dissent surrounding this entire matter. SDMF
    report abuseposted April 3, 2009 5:07 PM PDT
  • Anon
    I love her for doing this ad. She is not only a brilliant actress, she also seems to be an awesome and caring person. Calling attention to domestic violence is so important. This ad might be shocking for people, but for women who have suffered or are suffering from domestic abuse this is their daily reality. Think about that!
    report abuseposted April 3, 2009 1:54 PM PDT
  • Jackie L
    I witnessed domestic violence for 13 years and although this is graphic it is a realistic depiction of it. So if this is what is happening in real life why not show it in a PSA? If it help even one person get help then it's worth it. I mean what do they want them to show when it comes to domestic violence fluffy bunnies and pretty pink clouds?
    report abuseposted April 3, 2009 10:18 AM PDT
  • Alan
    That's sick and disgusting.
    report abuseposted April 3, 2009 9:06 AM PDT
  • Cameron
    Pretty, talented, and a good person. Joe Wright is pretty great too! A very crucial message.
    report abuseposted April 2, 2009 4:15 PM PDT
  • wigwam
    This moved me. My aunt was killed by an abusive partner. Thats why I cant understand why women allow themselves to continue in this cycle. There are just too many avenues for help and celebrities are in a position to get this point across. Hence, my disdain for Rihanna. I don't say that lightly, either. I really enjoyed her and her music.
    report abuseposted April 2, 2009 3:26 PM PDT
  • Tara G
    OOhh I LOVE Keria!!! Shes soo pretty.
    report abuseposted April 2, 2009 1:17 PM PDT
comments 1-10 of 14  |< newest · < newer · older > · oldest >| 

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