Exploring Multicultural Scenes in Historical Films: A Modern Perspective
Why do we often see diverse multicultural scenes in historical films when the era being depicted was predominantly white?
Historical Versus Fictional Representation
There's a common perception that portraying diverse characters in historical films is anachronistic, as many historical societies were indeed predominantly white. However, this is more a reflection of the modern and diverse audiences these films cater to. These films are not just historical documents but creations set in a fictional past. They are produced today, in a modern multicultural society, to engage a modern and diverse audience. As a result, these films often include characters of various ethnicities, not to represent the past accurately, but to reflect the present reality and demographics of the audience.
Modern Casting Trends
Modern casting trends in commercial productions, particularly in Hollywood, have moved towards non-traditional or 'non-white' casting. This trend involves casting actors of color in roles that were traditionally played by their white counterparts. The rationale behind this decision is often twofold: reflecting the present diversity of the audience, and providing diverse actors with more roles that challenge them artistically. For instance, a diverse cast can fill theater seats and increase box office sales, thereby justifying the decision.
Historical Versus Artistic Realism
One could argue that modern historical films are not as historically accurate as they could be because they do not depict the exact historical realities. Instead, they aim to reflect the artistic and aesthetic sensibilities of the era in which they are produced. This means, for example, that actors don't have their teeth pulled to reflect the poor dental hygiene of the past. They still strive for the pearly white smile of the leading actors to appeal to modern sensibilities. Similarly, the depiction of historical figures and scenes can also be influenced by the fashion and views of the time in which the film is made.
Non-Traditional Casting as Suspension of Disbelief
Furthermore, when it comes to films like Westerns, the inclusion of non-white actors is not about making the film more "historically real," but about maintaining a suspension of disbelief that is common in theater. If an audience can accept a modern actress playing a 13-year-old Juliet in Romeo and Juliet, they can often accept a non-white actor playing a traditional white role. This suspension of disbelief allows for a richer, more diverse cinematic experience, providing actors with challenging and meaningful roles.
Challenging Assumptions and Prejudices
However, it is important to challenge the assumption that all of the Western past was "white." Prior to the 19th century, the concept of race as it is understood today was not as prevalent. Thus, it is historically accurate to depict diverse characters when the evidence suggests it. For instance, historical figures such as Don John in Much Ado About Nothing and characters in Mary Queen of Scots have been portrayed by non-white actors, which is appropriate given what we know about historical figures of those times.
While this approach may upset some audiences who prefer the traditional casting, it is essential to recognize the progress and the need for fairness in representation. If one seriously believes that all of the European past was "white," then they may be misinformed about their history. Similarly, if the use of actors of color in traditional roles disturbs some viewers but they do not question the extensive casting of white actors in roles that were historically non-white, then their own prejudices need to be examined more closely.
Ultimately, the inclusion of diverse characters in historical films is a reflection of the evolving nature of society and a recognition of the need for greater representation in media. It enriches the narrative and provides a more accurate and inclusive view of the past, while also challenging and evolving the perspectives of the present.