The success of La La Land has been immense. With historic numbers of Oscar nominations and international profits exceeding $117 million, it will not be forgotten in a hurry. However, questions about its moral integrity reflect a wider issue we face today: should we avoid media we know to be problematic?
Indeed, La La Land has been accused of whitewashing Jazz Culture. Originating from black communities, Jazz has a proud non-white history, and yet, the film stars Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone as its leads. There are no doubts that the pair’s performance did the genre justice, but the fact remains that they are simply not black. With the ongoing discrimination black people face today, erasing them from their own culture is a serious issue that should not be ignored.
So, what do we do if we want to watch it? Should we boycott the film in recognition that it sets a damaging precedent? Or are we allowed to watch it so long as we are aware of the issues surrounding its casting? I propose the latter.
From ‘F.R.I.E.N.D.S.’ to ‘Split’, there are issues to explore in every piece of media we consume. From a lack of representation to sexist, racist, transphobic, ableist, or homophobic undertones, our films, TV shows and even music are unfortunately riddled with what we may consider injustices. However, it is by acknowledging these and criticizing them that we are able to raise awareness for them.
Personally, I would much sooner watch La La Land and speak out against its problems than dismiss it altogether.
If you feel strongly enough against the film, give La La Land a miss, since by consuming it you’re supporting and funding it, something you may feel entirely uncomfortable doing. Taking a big stand sometimes is important, but the point is, we don’t need to feel the pressure to do it every single time we are faced with any kind of issue with a piece of media. We should not feel guilty for wanting to indulge in films and TV shows that give us happiness and a break from our hectic lives.
If a film appeals to you, then watch it. If you like someone’s music, then listen to it. But use your voice. Speak about the problematic nature of the media you are consuming. Share the word and raise awareness for the causes you believe in. If we demand change, we can only hope that after enough time and grief, it will be supplied.
