Is Political Correctness Truly Necessary in Enjoying Classic Films?

When it comes to watching classic films, many people tend to avoid these masterpieces citing their political incorrectness. They argue that works by actors such as John Wayne should be judged by today's standards. However, this perspective overlooks the historical context and progress made over the decades. In this article, we delve into the nuances of enjoying classic films while grappling with the challenges of political correctness.

The Role of Historical Context in Enjoyment

Many classic films, like those of the Pre-Code era, were indeed more reflective of their times with all their inaccuracies. It is through this lens of history that we can appreciate these movies as artifacts of a different era. For instance, today when I watch a Pre-Code movie with overt forms of racism or sexism, I try to view it through the lens of someone in 1933. Such an approach helps me enjoy it as entertainment and distraction from the mundane.

The Evolution of Progress in Hollywood

Hollywood's progress in terms of casting and representation has been significant. While there is still much work to be done, it is important to acknowledge the strides taken. For example, black actresses no longer have to perform only 'maid or mammy' roles, and white actors no longer play Asians as seen in the Charlie Chan movies. This progress is directly influenced by changing societal values and advocacy for diversity and inclusion.

The Critique of Political Correctness

To me, political correctness (PC) can be seen as a double-edged sword. On one hand, it aims to remediate injustices and promote fair treatment of all individuals. However, it can also stifle open discourse and make it difficult for people to have honest conversations about these issues. PC has become dogmatic, making it impossible for those who disagree to express their views freely. This, in turn, leads to a more deeply entrenched divide in society.

The Focus on Entertainment Value

My preference is to prioritize the entertainment value and narrative intrigue of films over agendas driven by political correctness. I believe in learning from the past while enjoying the works of the past, including those of actors like John Wayne. Watching these old movies can provide a broader and more informed judgment. It also helps us understand that previous eras had different values and intentions, much like modern works can be judged using the same criterion.

Avoiding Political Correctness

In my daily life, I tend to avoid content that adheres to political correctness. I share a deep disdain for political correctness, believing that it stifles genuine dialogue and traps people in echo chambers. However, this does not mean I eschew all forms of progress; it simply means that I prioritize the enjoyment of classic films and the learning that comes from exploring their historical context.