Monday, April 7, 2014

Repressed Brits, evil Mexicans, Arab villains: why are Hollywood's animated movies full of racist stereotypes?

Racial stereotypes: Rio 2 (2014), Aladdin (1992), The Little Mermaid (1989) and Dumbo (1941). These are supposed to be progressive times for movies and people of colour. Django Unchained was a hit action movie about slavery. A black director just won the best picture Oscar for another one (Steve McQueen for 12 Years A Slave), and a Mexican won best director (Alfonso Cuarón for Gravity). Hollywood is finally starting to reflect the ethnic makeup and sensitivities of its national and global audiences.