The characterization of Candyman as a grotesque, hostile, and threatening black man obsessed with a white woman perpetuates dangerous racial stereotypes. The consequence of this depiction fortifies the racial fears and constructs that people of color have worked so ardently to dismantle.
Oscar Nominee, Jordan Peele, Teaches “Get Out” Inspired Class at UCLA
He knew it was a story that needed to be told. Told well and more importantly, told honestly.
UCLA Acquires Works of LA’s “Unofficial Poet Laureate”
Photo via poets.org Recently, UCLA’s library archive celebrated the organizational efforts and arrival of works by Afrikan American writer Wanda Coleman, including her poetry and TV/Film screenplays. The campaign to bring Coleman’s work to UCLA was spearheaded by English PhD candidate Kim Calder. The intimate celebration featured anecdotes and readings of selected pieces by many of the event’s attendees. Guests …
Kerry Washington Portrays Anita Hill in New HBO Film
Photo via Flickr Kerry Washington is portraying Anita Hill in the upcoming film Confirmation. Anita Hill, a professor of law for many years, was instrumental in pushing for stronger sexual harassment laws being taken more seriously, especially for black women. Confirmation tells the story of Hill’s battle against Supreme Court Justice member Clarence Thomas. In 1981, shortly after becoming a professor, Hill accused Thomas …
Naturally in Style: New Natural Hair Magazine Celebrates Authentic Black Beauty
Photo by Dionysius Burton via Flickr The natural hair movement is becoming a popular trend in our society. Black women are more comfortable and proud wearing their own, natural hair. In August 2015, the first issue of an editorial titled “CRWNMAG” was released online to celebrate and encourage the natural beauty of women of color everywhere. Co-founders Editor-in-chief Lindsey Day …
Forest Whitaker is Starting Anew
Photo by Stephen Poff via Flickr Forest Whitaker is no stranger in taking on complex characters. However, he is trying his luck in a different way; he is undertaking the role of Erie Smith. For those unfamiliar with the character of Erie Smith, he comes from the one-act play called “Hughie” written by Eugene O’Neill. In the play, Erie Smith …
The Elimination of the Word Diversity
Photo by Recently, “Selma” director and UCLA alumna Ava DuVernay has given her thoughts on the lack of diversity in light of the #OscarsSoWhite. Since the nominations were announced earlier this month, there has been outrage via media about the lack of diversity and how once again every nominee is white. While it is clear as to the frustration …
Marvel Debuts Action-Packed First Trailer for Captain America: Civil War
Marvel Studios just dropped the first trailer for Captain America: Civil War on tonight’s episode of Jimmy Kimmel, and it is undeniably epic. The teaser does an admirable job of making clear the premise and the stakes of the movie in just over two minutes—while showing off tons of gorgeous action and fight choreography, of course. For those who aren’t …