Racism in film "savages” by oliver stone essay

It is necessary to mention that the Chicano community had to deal with numerous issues such as racism and discrimination over the years, and the way the people are portrayed in all types of media is a critical issue. The most significant problem is that most of the stereotypes are incredibly outdated and not true at all, but the perspectives of other cultures are affected. Moreover, movies are especially problematic because they can be extremely realistic and some of them are based on real events.

A work titled “ Savages” that was released in 2012 can be viewed as one of the best examples of films where Chicano people are shown in a negative light (“ Savages”).

It is necessary to mention that it was not well-received by most critics, and many have noted that some of the scenes are racist. Also, the work is full of stereotypes that have been overused by the industry. The fact that members of the Chicano community are the primary villains in this movie is not surprising because it is an approach that is frequently used by screenwriters. Moreover, they are associated with drugs and criminal activities most of the time.

One of the core issues that should not be overlooked is that this movie portrays Chicano people as being incredibly violent, and they are participating in criminal activities. Moreover, the problem is that such characters are brutal most of the time and do not have any redeeming qualities (Mora 129). The problem is that the movie suggests that violence is a part of the lifestyle of Chicano people, and such ideas are questionable. Moreover, the criminal actions of white characters are justified in this work. On the other hand, people of color are shown as vicious, and most of their actions seem unreasonable. The issue is that it has an impact on the opinions of the audience, and they may think that most Chicanos are not law-abiding.

Another aspect that is worth noting is that they are portrayed as having low moral standards and ignorant in this particular movie. Scenes of torture and violence are especially worrying, and it is suggested that only people of color are capable of such actions. It is imperative to note that it is a significant problem because studies show that they receive enormous amounts of negative comments, and attitude towards them is also different (Niemann 59).

Furthermore, the problem is that such behavior is promoted in all types of media, and it is entirely possible that the situation is not going to change anytime soon. Also, many young people have to deal with such stereotypes in school, and other institutions, and it affects their experience.

In conclusion, it is imperative to mention that the current situation has established over the years, and such portrayals of the Chicano community are quite popular. On the other hand, many movies that are regarded masterpieces may also be discussed in this context. However, it is important to understand that the situation has changed, and this approach should not be acceptable because such movies can be viewed as racist and they promote intolerance. Moreover, a particular tension between different cultures is still present, and film production companies should consider it as an opportunity to discuss some of the most important topics and issues of modern society such as unfair treatment and racism.

Mora, Richard. “ Abjection and the Cinematic Cholothe Chicano Gang Stereotype in Sociohistoric Context.” THYMOS: Journal of Boyhood Studies 5. 2 (2011): 124-137. Print.

Niemann, Yolanda F. “ Stereotypes About Chicanas and Chicanos: Implications for Counseling.” The Counseling Psychologist 29. 1 (2001): 55-90. Print.

“ Savages” n. d. Web.