Hey there!

Since one posting wasn’t enough, I had to bless you guys with another sweet post. A recurring issue that I may want to represent within my project is how black women are poorly depicted in media. Often times, African American ladies are represented as super angry, aggressive, and fat. I want to put a stop to this stereotype, THERE ARE BEAUTIFUL, SMART, SANE BLACK WOMEN. Although some are actually a little loco, that doesn’t shape them entirely as every race has their moments.

This issue has been addressed by The Washington Post, which is not to mention, a credible and reliable source. They explain, “After a 10-day cycle of recording the images they viewed on the Internet, television and other media, the black women in the Essence report — which was conducted by the research firm Cheskin/Added Value — described themselves as feeling saddened and disrespected, among other emotions.” I am a firm believer in equality and proper representation. It’s one thing to be a race that is demonstrated in an inhumane way, but another where it’s actually affecting them. Essence is a monthly magazine company for African American women, and I am so glad they released a section exposing the wrongfulness and preaching for proper representation.

Another media platform this issue is presented on is a cartoon caricature of Serena Williams during one of her matches made by Mark Knight. Williams’ features are exaggerated to mock the basic traits African Americans inhibit. For example, her lips, hair, and body is drawn completely unrealistic and immaturely. Not only is her appearance incorrect, but the action of her throwing a tantrum is very disrespectful. When an athlete feels like the referee's call is wrong, it is their right to be able to challenge it without getting hate for doing so. Knight has been criticized for his cruel portrayal and it baffles me that he would even think of sending that out into the world.

As I’m starting to wrap things up, I am feeling very upset and winded up. These representation characteristics are not fair nor correct. I would retain the characteristics of big lips as it is true that many African Americans do tend to have bigger lips than any other race. It is acceptable that aggression is represented but to an extent, just like everyone else (no more, no less). I would like to challenge the “Baby momma,” and “Gold-digging” representation of these women. Many have been extremely successful without a partner, making a name for themselves, by themselves. WE ARE ONE AND WE SHOULD BE PROPER REPRESENTED. #girlpower

Xoxo,

Amanda

Hi again,

I know it’s been a long time since I’ve last updated my readers on my progress but I’m back; I hope you didn’t miss me too much. Just kidding, well it wouldn’t be a problem if you did (laugh out loud). I’ve decided to further open my selection of genres from horror to dramas. Moreover, I am extremely interested in creative drama. Creative drama displays drama within an educational environment especially with teenagers. As a teen, I appeal to this genre as I can truly relate to the content. In these movies and television shows there is a group of close friends and with that comes a whole lot of arguments, as well as adventures. There is always a set place that they can always hang out at and true friendship is demonstrated throughout.

Furthermore, the production techniques these television shows and movies enhance is the mise-en-scene. The costume design is specifically picked based on what they want their audience to understand about the plot. Whether it’s trendy, expensive clothing for rich teenagers, or dirty, ripped up clothes for less fortunate teenagers, there is always meaning behind it. The school design is typically shown with blue or red lockers, as well as the school news displayed on smart TVs all over the school. The lighting is often dark in school shots and scenes, which is meant to represent how depressing and horrible teenagers feel towards this place.

One show that embodies creative drama is Gossip Girl. Gossip Girl is a show of a group of Upper East Siders in New York. Not only are they’re families connected but so are they. Growing up together, the main characters, Blair and Serena have arguments about boys, colleges, and so much more. This is much like a real life scenario as everyone goes through rough times with their best friends at some point in their friendship. The whole crew goes to a private high school and they are all very wealthy, hence why they all live in a clean, polished area. Through school and drama that goes on within a group of friends, this show perfectly depicts the lows and highs teenagers experience.  

Another show that embodies this specific genre is Riverdale. Throughout this show a group of friends, who are not to mention, are also tied together by family go through many things. Drama is highly demonstrated as one of the main character’s brother dies so the group dedicates they’re time and effort to figure out how it happened. On top of this, they’re parents have a lot going on themselves. High school drama with people and rumors is highlighted greatly in this series and the teenage audience enjoys watching it because they, themselves go through this on a daily basis.

Xoxo,

Amanda