A controversy has erupted on social media over an intimate scene between Jenna Ortega, 21, and Martin Freeman, 52, described as ''gross'' and ''disturbing'' by many cinema lovers. The scene features in the movie 'Miller's Girl', a black comedy drama currently in the theatres. The movie stars Jenna Ortega as an 18-year-old student who becomes entangled in an inappropriate relationship with her teacher, played by Martin Freeman, after she writes a sex story for a writing assignment in his class.
An intimate scene between Martin Freeman and Jenna Ortega has left fans uncomfortable, with many expressing disgust over the actors' stark 31-year age gap.
''Wait why's Martin Freeman the [50-year-old] sha**ing Jenna Ortega when she's like 20?'', one user wrote. Another commented, ''I think I am finally done watching these age gap movies. They are all gross, and I am tired of it. No amount of Jenna Ortega or Martin Freeman could save this one for me.''
A third said, ''This Jenna Ortega/Martin Freeman film is so gross! So, so, so, so gross!'' A fourth added, ''That Jenna Ortega Martin Freeman clip might be the worst thing I've ever seen.''
However, some also tweeted in defence of Ortega.
One user commented, ''I get some people don't want to see certain scenes in Miller's Girl ( I also don't), but treating Jenna Ortega like she's a child forced to take on certain projects or film certain scenes is so insulting to her and her work.''
Another said, ''She's an actress and that's her job.'' A third stated, ''[People are] talking as if she were still a child and as if this wasn't just a cinematic scene.''
According to the film's synopsis, Miller's Girl follows the story of ''a talented young writer (Jenna Ortega) who embarks on a creative odyssey when her teacher (Martin Freeman) assigns a project that entangles them both in an increasingly complex web. As lines blur and their lives intertwine, Professor and protégé must confront their darkest selves while straining to preserve their sense of purpose and the things they hold most dear.''
Notably, Jenna Ortega rose to fame with her starring role as Wednesday Adams in Netflix's popular series 'Wednesday'. She was also nominated for an Emmy for her performance.
