Read all the assigned articles for the current module. Aziz Ansari’s article is a first-person account of his own experiences as an actor of color looking to succeed in an industry that pigeonholes Asian American actors and actresses — you also may recognize him from prior references, including his opening SNL monologue that was included earlier in this semester.
Another piece an interview transcript between film critics specifically around Ghost in the Shell, now notoroious for casting Scarlett Johansson in a whitewashed role. While the discussion does center on the film, the critics also touch upon other relevant issues and productions. Finally, the third piece provides more broader context and analysis for these issues, as well as noting some of changes that have started to arise more recently as a result.
However, to participate in this module’s forum discussion, you will need to do some outside research. The articles touch upon TV shows or films that you may not be familiar with. You should spend some time familiarizing yourself with such material to understand the issue. Moreover, there have also been other recent issues with on-screen representation of Asians and Asian Americans in Hollywood that have not been addressed, as well as instances where there have been more attempts at inclusivity. For those who might not be aware, the premiere of the film Crazy Rich Asians in 2018 was significant in that it touched upon many of these issues of representation.
Dig around, and find what’s available.
For your response, you should reflect upon what you have read as in other modules, sharing your thoughts and understanding. But more importantly, I would also like you to integrate whatever outside research that you have found. What did you find interesting or relevant to this issue?
https://www.newyorker.com/culture/cultural-comment…
https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2017/09/bia…