WOMEN OF COLOR IN VIDEO MEDIA
Collage created by Chanae Winston
For underrepresented communities, media representation is vital. Though historically underrepresented in significant roles in video entertainment, there has been a shift towards greater diversified representation in recent years. According to UCLA’s 2023 Hollywood Diversity Report, since 2019 people of color have been consistently becoming a bigger part of the entertainment space when compared to their white counterparts. The study indicates that Americans are gravitating toward more diversified films. The highest median global box office receipts were earned by cinematic pictures in 2022 with casts that were between 31% and 40% minorities, while the worst performers (repeating a trend seen in the previous three years) were those with casts that were less than 11% minorities.
This topic gives us the chance to examine the incredible careers of three women of color who have portrayed powerful leading roles in motion pictures: Kerry Washington in "Scandal," Lashana Lynch in "007 No Time To Die," and Gina Torres in "911 Lone Star."
Kerry Washington as Olivia Pope in “Scandal” (source: Wallpaper Flare)
The technique and skill Kerry Washington used to portray Olivia Pope in "Scandal" was groundbreaking. She was the first Black woman to lead a network drama in almost 40 years. As an accomplished political fixer who was simultaneously battling her own personal issues, Olivia Pope was a complicated person. Washington's portrayal of Olivia was nuanced and multifaceted, and both audiences and critics highly praised her performance. Washington’s character in the show is not only a political crisis manager but is also the mistress to the highest-ranking political figure in the show, the president. In the show, Washington maintained the look of a well thought and well-put woman in power, while skillfully switching between her more vulnerable side of her character, to the quick-witted and sharp-tongued.
Lashana Lynch as Nomi in "007 No Time To Die" (source: Nicola Dove/Danjaq, LLC and MGM)
Additionally, Lynch's casting in the film "007 No Time To Die" is part of a broader push for greater diversity and representation in Hollywood. Lynch's role in the film is important because it challenges traditional gender roles. Lynch's character, Nomi, is also shown as Bond's equal rather than as a sidekick or love interest. This goes against the conventional gender stereotypes of the franchise, which have frequently portrayed women as Bond's love interests or supporting players. The movie offers a more equal view of gender roles in the spying genre by giving Nomi a prominent role and presenting her as a potential Bond character replacement.
Gina Torres as “ Captain Tommy Vega in “911 Lone Star” (source: Jordin Althaus/FOX)
Lastly, Gina Torres has long been a major player in the television industry, and "911 Lone Star" is no exception. Torres portrays Austin Fire Department Captain Tommy Vega, a returning paramedic who gave up her career to raise her children. When the events of Covid force her to return to the job, she finds herself navigating a new role as a leader dealing with personal and professional challenges. Torres' performance as Captain Tommy Vega is a prime example of POC character representation done right. Her character is both strong and vulnerable, a capable and experienced leader who also struggles with doubts and insecurities about her abilities as a widowed mother and paramedic. Torres brings a level of emotional depth and authenticity to her portrayal, conveying a wide range of emotions, from humor and warmth to anger and sadness, often in the same scene. Additionally, Torres balances the authority of Vega's role with a sense of empathy and compassion for her colleagues. As a result, Vega’s character is both relatable and inspiring to older and younger audiences alike.
These are just a handful of the multiple examples of women of color in video media who are breaking down barriers and defying prejudiced stereotypes, while also giving interesting and relatable performances. It is critical to keep encouraging and recognizing these women. We are reminded of the strength and resiliency of women of color when they appear in strong leading roles, and we are motivated to overcome our own obstacles and pursue our aspirations as a result.
After reading this blog, I hope readers will have a better understanding of the significance of diversity and representation in the media, especially when it comes to the portrayal of women of color in powerful main roles. Additionally, I hope that readers will be motivated to support and seek out media with varied and nuanced characters, as well as to speak out in favor of increased diversity and representation in the entertainment sector. Ultimately, I want to question readers' preconceptions about gender, racism, and representation in popular culture while also encouraging them to widen their viewpoints. We can all help to build a society that is more inclusive and equal if we do this.
MEET THE AUTHOR
Chanae Winston is a student at Western High School and a participant in Wide Angle’s programs. She has a passion for writing and enjoys creating both books and short stories.