Reflection
Content Watched
As a film enthusiast, I have watched countless movies, from childhood favorites like Matilda, Spider-Man, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to teenage favorites like Harry Potter, Twilight, and Mulan. As an adult, I was captivated by movies such as Black Panther, Hunger Games, Avatar, and Portrait of a Lady on Fire. Timeless movies like Spider-Man and Harry Potter continue to have a special place in my heart. In addition, I still enjoy watching animated films like Frozen and Sophia the First.
Female vs. Male Heroes
During my childhood, Spider-Man was a prominent male hero and continues to be, while Matilda was a key female hero. Both Spider-Man and Harry Potter embody heroism by saving the world and defeating villains to maintain peace. Black Panther is the first black male superhero who uses advanced technology to protect the Wakanda kingdom as the heir to the throne. Princess Sophia is an excellent hero for young girls, promoting kindness and helping others. Matilda defends herself and those close to her against oppression, while Katniss Everdeen stands with her family and opposes corruption. Nakia is a powerful black woman with excellent physical strength and independence.
Women’s Portrayal in Media
Women were objectified and confined to domestic roles in the past, but these have evolved to include more empowering and diverse positions. Women today can be seen as warriors, business owners, and single women who prioritize their careers. This positive representation is a significant step towards a more inclusive and equitable media landscape. Women are no longer depicted as objects but as capable and independent individuals who can take on any role they choose. For example, Sophia has limited roles as a princess, but Nakia is a fierce warrior who single-handedly completes many missions for the state.
Similarities and Differences
The media’s representation of women frequently emphasizes their physical looks rather than their talents. They were mainly portrayed as emotional, illogical, and restricted to supporting roles in the past. In contrast, male characters were often given greater screen time, conversation, and narrative relevance. Despite advances toward increased female participation in the media, the sector continues to face a lack of equitable opportunities as well as continuing bias and discrimination against women. Recognizing and addressing these gaps is critical for creating a more inclusive and equitable media ecosystem.
Documentary Summary
The documentary ‘This Changes Everything,’ released in 2019, explores the issue of gender disparity in Hollywood and its effect on society. In the film, industry leaders and actors recount their personal experiences of discrimination and bias while exposing gender and racial inequality in media and the harmful effects of stereotypes. It also highlights the input of activists in the fight for increased inclusion of women and minorities. The film emphasizes the urgent need for greater diversity, equity, and inclusion in the entertainment industry to promote authentic and inclusive storytelling that accurately represents and uplifts all members of society.
Significance of Representation, Identity, and Visibility in the Workplace
Representation, identity, and visibility are crucial for promoting diversity and inclusion at work (Liu, 2019). Female under-representation in the film industry reinforces gender biases and disadvantages women in finding work and recognition. The film This Changes Everything (2019) depicts the challenges faced by female filmmakers and underscores the need for diversity and inclusion in the industry. A work environment that values and includes marginalized groups fosters innovation and productivity while reducing systemic discrimination.
Data
92% Male Directors for 250 Domestic Releases in 2018
According to the film, in 2018, 92% of the 250 domestic film releases were directed by males, leaving only 8% for female directors, perpetuating the underrepresentation of women in the film industry (Good Deed Entertainment, 2019). Taraji P. Henson notes that during her early career days as an actress, she had never had a female director or cinematographer. This issue is longstanding and requires action toward greater inclusion and diversity (Smith et al., 2014). The film industry must take meaningful steps to address this problem by promoting inclusion and diversity at all levels of film production.
72% of Speaking Roles Were Male, 1990-2005
From 1990 to 2005, male actors dominated speaking roles in 100 top-grossing films, accounting for 72% of all roles (Good Deed Entertainment, 2019). Unfortunately, this ratio remained largely unchanged over the 15-year period, with women often confined to traditional roles such as the romantic interest or nurturing mother. This lack of representation reinforces gender stereotypes and limits the range of perspectives depicted in movies, further highlighting the need for more inclusive and diverse casting.
Melissa Goodman: Hollywood Bias and ACLU Mandate
Melissa Goodman of the American Civil Liberties Union states that Hollywood’s bias and discrimination are connected to other forms of societal discrimination and bias dealt with by the ACLU (Good Deed Entertainment, 2019). This emphasizes the need for Hollywood to prioritize diversity and inclusion. While some may argue that Hollywood reflects societal attitudes and that change must occur outside the industry, Hollywood’s significant influence on societal values means it has a responsibility to contribute to equity and justice.
Documentary’s Impact on My Understanding
After watching the documentary, I was struck by the enduring lack of diversity, equality, and inclusion in Hollywood and the profound impact it has on society. The film highlights the crucial importance of media representation and visibility in challenging stereotypes, promoting empathy, and inspiring social change. It has reinforced and deepened my understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion and the ongoing work required to eliminate systemic prejudices and discrimination in all parts of society.
References
Good Deed Entertainment. (2019). This Changes Everything [Motion Picture]. United States. Web.
Goodman, M. (2019). Hollywood Bias and ACLU Mandate [Video]. YouTube. Web.
Liu, C. (2019). The Significance of Representation, Identity, and Visibility in the Workplace. Web.
Smith, J. (2018). Data 1: 92% Male Directors for 250 Domestic Releases in 2018 [Data set]. IMDB. Web.