electro mag Mar 25 (2) - Flipbook - Page 9
But, the conversation shouldn’t stop at simply
including POC—it must extend to how those
stories are told, and whose voices are centred
in the process.
What’s striking is that films rooted in cultural
authenticity, like Moana and Encanto, haven’t
attracted nearly the same backlash as casting
changes in traditionally Eurocentric tales.
Why?
Because these stories originate from the
histories, legends, and lived experiences of the
cultures they represent. They don't feel like
token gestures—they feel honest. They come
from within the culture, not imposed onto it.
Similarly, Studio Ghibli has built its legacy by
drawing from Japanese folklore and cultural
nuances. Its storytelling has become a form of
"soft power," introducing global audiences to
Japan’s traditions while staying true to their
essence. This kind of storytelling that not only
educates—it affirms identity.
Swapping a white character for a black one,
while perhaps well-intentioned, often misses
the point. Representation isn’t just about who
appears on screen—it's about the stories we
choose to tell. Can re-casting an existing
character truly be called
