Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
As we gather around the table this holiday, I can’t help but reflect on a time when differences didn’t divide us but brought us together. In today’s world, where elites and the forgotten man often seem at odds, I'd like to share a tale from cinema history—a moment when these divides were bridged, not by sameness, but through the respect for unique perspectives. It's a story that reminds us of a lesson we might need today more than ever. And don’t worry, I promise not to "alienate" anyone with this reflection (pun fully intended).
Hollywood's Superficial Diversity: What About Class?
In recent years, Hollywood has proudly showcased its commitment to diversity, prominently featuring a mosaic of races and genders on screen. At first glance, this seems like a significant stride toward inclusivity. But as we celebrate these visible changes, it's worth asking: Has Hollywood's focus on superficial diversity overshadowed the deeper need for genuine, varied perspectives—especially those from different social and economic backgrounds?
A Look Back: Spielberg's Humility and the Everyman Voice
Let's rewind to 1975. A young director named Steven Spielberg was working on a film that would become a cinematic classic—"Jaws." Despite his emerging genius, Spielberg recognized that his own background didn't equip him to authentically portray the working-class characters central to his story. He knew he needed help capturing the true essence of everyday dialogue.
Enter Carl Gottlieb, a writer and actor with a knack for the vernacular of the common man. Spielberg brought Gottlieb on board to infuse the script with authentic language and relatable humor. This collaboration wasn't about checking boxes or fulfilling quotas; it was about enriching the story through genuine diversity of experience.
From Working-Class Heroes to Wealthy Protagonists: Hollywood’s Changing Lens
"The Evolution of Character Diversity in Hollywood Films"As this infographic reveals, Hollywood's focus on socioeconomic diversity has shifted dramatically over the decades. In the 1970s and 80s, characters like Chief Brody (Jaws) and the Nostromo crew (Alien) reflected relatable, working-class experiences. Fast forward to today, and most stories revolve around middle- or upper-class individuals—scientists, executives, and billionaires—leaving the voices of the working class increasingly silent.
This Thanksgiving, let’s reflect on the richness that authentic, grounded storytelling brings to our screens. Just as Spielberg recognized the value of Carl Gottlieb’s everyman perspective in Jaws, perhaps it’s time for Hollywood to once again embrace genuine inclusivity—not just in appearance, but in experience. After all, it’s the diversity of our stories that truly unites us.
Remember the camaraderie and sharp banter between Brody, Quint, and Hooper aboard the Orca? That wasn’t just happenstance—it was Carl Gottlieb’s work behind the scenes, enriching the script with humor and authenticity. Lines like Quint’s bawdy sea shanty, “Here lies the body of Mary Lee, died at the age of 103,” added levity and grounded the characters in a relatable, working-class reality. Gottlieb’s rewrites ensured that these characters felt like real people—folks you might encounter in a small seaside town—not polished archetypes from a focus group or an elite writer's room.
Contemporary Examples: The Contrast Today
Fast forward to today, and we see films and shows boasting diverse casts that visually represent a range of races and genders. Yet, many of these characters share remarkably similar backgrounds—often hailing from privileged upbringings, elite educations, and insulated social circles.
Consider blockbuster films like "Prometheus" or "Alien: Covenant," where characters are predominantly elite scientists and executives, disconnected from the working-class roots that made the original "Alien" so relatable. In contrast, the TV series "The Wire" offers a profound exploration of class, depicting the lives of individuals from various socioeconomic backgrounds in Baltimore. It's a testament to how class diversity can enrich storytelling, offering depth and authenticity.
Similarly, films like "Joker" (2019) delve into the struggles of marginalized individuals, highlighting the impact of societal neglect. On the other hand, many mainstream movies continue to overlook these narratives, opting instead for stories that, while diverse in appearance, lack depth in representing varied life experiences.
Deeper Industry Insight: Barriers to Class Representation
Why does this superficial diversity persist? Industry professionals suggest that economic and creative barriers play a role. Comedian and filmmaker Chris Rock once pointed out that while Hollywood is open to stories about race, it often neglects the nuances of class. He noted, "There's an acceptance that diversity means black or brown faces, but not necessarily diverse backgrounds."
Moreover, studios may perceive working-class narratives as less marketable, fearing they won't resonate with a global audience seeking escapism. This risk-averse mentality limits the types of stories that get told, reinforcing a cycle where only certain perspectives are highlighted.
Addressing Counterarguments
Some might argue that audiences prefer aspirational stories featuring successful, affluent characters. However, the success of films and shows like "Parasite," "Breaking Bad," and "Stranger Things" suggests there's a substantial appetite for narratives rooted in diverse socioeconomic realities. These stories captivate audiences by exploring universal themes through the lens of varied experiences.
Broader Cultural Context: A Global Perspective
Globally, other film industries embrace class narratives more openly. South Korean cinema, for instance, often tackles class struggles head-on, as seen in "Parasite." British films like "Billy Elliot" and "I, Daniel Blake" offer poignant insights into working-class life. These international examples highlight how embracing class diversity can lead to critically acclaimed and commercially successful storytelling.
A Call to Embrace Genuine Inclusivity
It's time for Hollywood—and all of us—to recognize that diversity isn't just about visible traits but also about the breadth of human experience. By embracing individuals from varied socioeconomic backgrounds, we enrich our narratives and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
How can we encourage more authentic representation?
Support Diverse Storytellers: Champion writers, directors, and creators from different class backgrounds.
Expand Casting Choices: Seek actors who bring genuine life experiences to their roles, enhancing authenticity.
Invest in Varied Narratives: Encourage studios to take risks on stories that explore different facets of society.
My Commitment to Authentic Storytelling
In my upcoming project, "The Entropy Code," I'm striving to tell a story that doesn't just check the boxes of superficial diversity but genuinely incorporates voices and perspectives from different walks of life. It's a sci-fi adventure that aims to resonate on a human level, touching on themes that are universal yet often overlooked in mainstream narratives.
A Thanksgiving Reflection
As we enjoy this day of gratitude, let's remember the importance of all voices in our stories—not just those that fit a certain mold or come from similar elite backgrounds. Diversity of thought and experience makes storytelling vibrant and meaningful.
So here's to embracing genuine inclusivity, recognizing the value each person brings regardless of their background, and crafting narratives that reflect the beautifully complex tapestry of real life . Now let's celebrate the stories that unite us and the shared experiences that make us human.
Wishing you all a warm, joyful, and fulfilling Thanksgiving!
Join the Conversation
If this reflection resonates with you, I'd love to hear your thoughts:
What stories have you encountered that authentically represent diverse life experiences?
How do you think we can encourage more genuine diversity in storytelling?
Feel free to share your insights in the comments below or join the discussion on social media using the hashtag #AuthenticVoices.
Let's make storytelling a true reflection of all our experiences—not just a select few.
Happy Thanksgiving!
-Narottama Panitz
