Concept of race within film

– Current Thesis:

Racist ideologies and concepts have evolved and improved in the world of cinema thanks to the advancements of racial justice and activism, which has allowed for better representation to be created in film.

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– A gist of the introduction, thesis, and main points:

Film over the years has undergone many different changes and phases of experimentation. More recently, topics such as racism and racial representation within film have become more and more prevalent. Currently, racist ideologies and concepts have evolved and improved in the world of cinema thanks to the advancements of racial justice and activism, which has allowed for better representation to be created in film. Cinema has come a long way from “Birth of a Nation” to movies like “Get Out”. “Birth of a Nation” promoted racist ideologies that created a tone for the representation of Black people in America. “Get Out” was a movie that directly attacked and broke these stereotypes and brought racial issues into the limelight. Cinema has also been able to grow substantially over the years in the terms of representation. From films like “Within Our Gates” that created a narrative of white supremacy to films like “Black Panther” that showcased a black superhero for the first time on a grand scale.

– Instructions/Subject:

Write an essay that argues and explains the evolution/change/growth of racial issues, ideologies, and representations in film/cinema history. Give examples of films, and other events that might have helped influenced/aid the growth/change/evolution of cinema throughout the years. Draw references to films such as “Birth of a Nation” and “Within Our Gates”
Provide works cited page as well.

Expert Answer:

Over the years, film and cinema have evolved in many ways, including in their treatment of racial issues and representation. In the early days of cinema, films like “Birth of a Nation” (1915) perpetuated racist ideologies and stereotypes, creating a harmful and damaging portrayal of Black people in America. However, as the years have gone on, there have been significant advancements in the fight for racial justice and equality, which have had a positive impact on the film industry.

One example of this evolution can be seen in the emergence of films that directly address and challenge racist ideologies, such as “Get Out” (2017). This film, written and directed by Jordan Peele, is a satirical horror film that explores themes of racism and white supremacy in a compelling and thought-provoking way. “Get Out” was not only a commercial success, but it also received critical acclaim and won numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

Another important milestone in the evolution of racial representation in film was the release of “Within Our Gates” (1920). This film, directed by Oscar Micheaux, is considered to be the first feature-length film made by an African American director. It tells the story of a young Black woman who fights against white supremacy and racism, and is seen as an important precursor to the modern civil rights movement.

The release of “Black Panther” (2018) was another significant moment in the evolution of racial representation in film. This film, directed by Ryan Coogler, featured a predominantly Black cast and crew and was the first Marvel Cinematic Universe film to have a Black lead. “Black Panther” was a critical and commercial success, and its portrayal of a powerful and sophisticated Black superhero was seen as a major step forward in terms of representation in Hollywood.

In conclusion, while there have certainly been setbacks and challenges in the evolution of racial representation in film, there have also been many important advancements and milestones. From “Within Our Gates” to “Get Out” to “Black Panther,” it is clear that cinema has come a long way in its portrayal of race and racism. As the fight for racial justice and equality continues, it is important that the film industry continues to push for greater representation and diversity.

Works Cited: