Cultural Representation in Film: Native American Perspectives and Disney

Posted on Aug 11, 2024 in Language

Reading

Skyhawk’s Argument

1. Skyhawk argues that Disney’s portrayal of Native Americans is inaccurate. (True)

2. American Indians in films and TV are more upset with Johnny Depp than with Disney. (False) – They are more upset with Disney.

3. Skyhawk believes that Disney should hire Native American actors. (True)

4. According to Skyhawk, Disney’s portrayal of Native Americans is disrespectful to their culture. (True)

Vocabulary – Circle the Best Option

  1. The way someone is raised: Upbringing
  2. To increase rapidly: Proliferating
  3. To keep or hold onto something: Retain
  4. Unable to read or write: Illiterate
  5. Avoid doing something: Refrain
  6. Take advantage of an opportunity: Seize
  7. A hint or suggestion: Cue

Additional Vocabulary

  1. According to new research, the tradition of storytelling dates back centuries.
  2. According to Salete, the company’s earnings have increased significantly.
  3. Favelas in Brazil often face issues of social and economic unfairness.
  4. Lucia is excited to participate in the games.
  5. The city’s vibrant culture is the main theme of the festival.
  6. It can be inferred that the character had to lie to protect his family.
  7. Sergio is considered one of the best athletes in the country.
  8. It can be concluded that the Olympics bring people together from all over the world.

The Controversy of Cultural Representation

Because of the lack of interest from Disney to respect people’s cultures, there is a lot of controversy surrounding the portrayal of different cultures in their movies. One example is the interviewer’s Arab friend who was offended by a stereotypical portrayal in a Disney film.

A solution would be for Disney to research the cultures they are depicting before making a film. This would allow them to create more authentic and respectful portrayals of different cultures. However, Disney’s primary focus seems to be profit, leading them to release films they believe will be commercially successful, regardless of cultural accuracy.

Sonny Skyhawk’s Perspective

Since Disney does not often cast Native Americans in their films, Sonny Skyhawk argues that this leads to a feeling of exclusion and disrespect among Native American communities. The inaccurate portrayals of Native Americans in Disney films perpetuate harmful stereotypes and disrespect their ancestors.

Skyhawk believes that Disney could improve the quality of their films and avoid controversy by hiring Native American actors and consultants. This would ensure more authentic and respectful representation of Native American cultures.

The Impact of Stereotypes

Due to the lack of Native American actors in prominent roles, Disney often relies on non-Native actors to portray Native American characters. This often results in stereotypical and inaccurate portrayals that are offensive to Native American communities.

Skyhawk argues that Disney should hire Native American actors to play Native American roles, but acknowledges that this is unlikely due to the lack of Native American actors with the same level of fame as Johnny Depp.

Cultural Differences in Nonverbal Communication

The document also touches upon cultural differences in nonverbal communication:

  • Thumbs up gestures, while considered a sign of approval in some cultures, can be offensive in the Middle East.
  • The eyebrow flash is a form of nonverbal communication that can have different meanings in different cultures.
  • Ancient cultures, such as Native Americans, Mayans, and ancient Greeks, often viewed time as cyclical rather than linear.

Conclusion

According to the interview with Sonny Skyhawk, one of the main reasons for Native American complaints about Disney films is the inaccurate and stereotypical portrayal of their culture. Skyhawk suggests that Disney should conduct thorough research and consult with Native American communities to ensure more authentic and respectful representation in their films.

By taking these steps, Disney can avoid controversy and create films that are both entertaining and culturally sensitive.