Tuesday 9 May 2017

10/05/17 - Death Note: Netflix sparks whitewashing controversy once more with new film



Netflix decided to make the famous Manga Death note however it has been a complete westernised and whitewashed 'adaptation'. Actor Edward Zo was refused the role of Light Yagami, the protagonist for 'being Too Asian'. there has been a lack of lead roles for Asian-Americans and this issue has be exacerbated by the rise in US adaptations with a complete white American cast.


O another recent controversy is Ghost in the Shell  where the lead was changed to Scarlett Johansson.

I think that whitewashing is a massive issue and Netflix seems to be showing it on a smaller scale. Death Note in particular is heavily reliant on Japanese traditions and culture and it would simply not make any sense whatsoever in an American remake. there are a lot of POC, members of the LGBTQ+ society e.t.c who are not being represented and remakes that original included them are replacing them with White, typically American, straight, fully abled people. They also often have the actors play the role 'the way it was' even though they personally have no association. The lack of representation, although being tackled is still a massive issue and i don't think it will be resolved until the most powerful in the industry change. Its not about people just wanting notable stars, There is an obvious demand for more representation that is not being listened to.

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