Jenna Ortega Advocates for Original Female-Led Stories, Likens Movies to "Religious Experiences

"Beetlejuice 2" star Jenna Ortega believes that movies can be a spiritual outlet, echoing Winona Ryder's sentiments. Ortega also strongly supports creating new female-led stories rather than gender-swapping old movie roles.

Jenna Ortega, the rising star of "Beetlejuice 2," has expressed her thoughts on the ongoing debate surrounding gender-swapped movie roles and the transformative power of cinema.

Jenna Ortega Advocates for Original Female-Led Stories, Likens Movies to "Religious Experiences

Speaking to Fox News Digital, Ortega emphasized the importance of creating original female-led stories rather than relying on gender-swapped remakes. "I love that there's a lot more female leads nowadays, I think that's so special. But we should have our own. I don't like it when it's like a spin-off," said the 21-year-old actress.

Ortega believes that instead of rehashing old stories with female characters, Hollywood should focus on developing fresh and compelling narratives centered around women. "I don't want to see a 'Jamie Bond', I want to see just like another bada-- [character]."

Jenna Ortega Advocates for Original Female-Led Stories, Likens Movies to "Religious Experiences

This perspective aligns with the views of other notable female figures in the entertainment industry. Barbara Broccoli, the producer of the "James Bond" franchise, has consistently advocated for creating original female characters rather than simply gender-swapping existing male roles. "I don’t think a woman should play James Bond," Broccoli told The Hollywood Reporter in 2021. "I believe in making characters for women and not just having women play men’s roles. I don’t think there are enough great roles for women, and it’s very important to me that we make movies for women about women."

Ana de Armas, who played a leading role in the James Bond film "No Time to Die," echoes Ortega and Broccoli's sentiments. "There’s no need for a female Bond. There shouldn’t be any need to steal someone else’s character… What I would like is that the female roles in the Bond films… are brought to life in a different way."

Jenna Ortega Advocates for Original Female-Led Stories, Likens Movies to "Religious Experiences

In addition to her stance on gender-swapped roles, Ortega also shared her belief that movies can be a profound and transformative experience for viewers. "Something religion can bring to people is hope, and that’s what film does as well… It can be a form of escapism; you can forget your worries and problems. Or you can watch something and take whatever it is that the character’s learned and apply it into your own life," Ortega said.

Ortega's comments resonate with the sentiments of many film enthusiasts who find solace, inspiration, and wisdom in the stories they see on screen. Whether it's through escapism, emotional resonance, or personal growth, movies have the power to touch our lives in countless ways.

Jenna Ortega Advocates for Original Female-Led Stories, Likens Movies to "Religious Experiences

As Ortega embarks on her career in the entertainment industry, she hopes to be a part of projects that not only entertain but also leave a lasting impact on audiences. With her passion for original storytelling and her unwavering belief in the power of cinema, Ortega is poised to make a significant contribution to the world of film.