Hollywood's Problem: Itself.

The article, “How to fix Hollywood’s race problem,” highlights the inefficient way that the film industry recognizes people of color and harshly stereotypes certain groups of people. The article shines light on the Oscars, and how nomination were strictly and visibly favoring the whites. But, it is more than just the Oscars, it is a problem we face in the world today. See, the way people are portrayed in film is how people begin to judge and discriminate. Film is the center stage for racial and ethnical discrimination because it reaches so many viewers. The article refers to “the film industry’s failure to represent people of color runs far deeper than #OscarsSoWhite.”

The article gives a list of 10 stereotypes for people of color on screen. The magical Negro who has some connections to magical forces. The thug who is an aggressive black man or woman with no future as well as the superhuman athlete whose talent is seen by white folks. Also, there is the super-rich evil Arab sheikh who’s too rich and uncertain of the real value of money. Then, there’s the awkward desexualized Asian who can never get a girlfriend. A mammy, or an overweight black women, who serves for the white families. Next, there is a jaded older police officer who “acts as a counterpoint to a younger, more energetic white police officer.” Additionally, there is the eternal sidekick and the sassy confidante. But, finally, there is the terrorist who dangerous and speaking in Arab dialogue.

The list is spot-on and it is something that has helped stereotypes fit into their desired category. It starts with film and we must know the power of the media.

Latif, N. (2016, January 18). How to fix Hollywood's race problem. Retrieved April 25, 2016, from http://www.theguardian.com/film/2016/jan/18/hollywoods-race-problem-film-industry-actors-of-colour