The movie Harriet(2019) received wide recognition for it’s powerful depiction of Harriet Tubman. The leading actress Cynthia Erivo, travels through the underground railroad as Harriet Tubman. The film received sparked conversation in regards to the Academy Awards. The film was widely discussed because it was believed to be a snub. The film didn’t receive any recognition or nomination from the Academy. Although that was quite controversial, a more controversial tale was a discussion that came to be prior to the filming of the actual film. A Hollywood executive suggested that Julia Roberts, a white woman, should portray Harriet Tubman. Once this comment from 25 years ago was exposed to the public, many people thought it only fair to share their thoughts and feelings on the matter.
On one side, we have people who are completely against Harriet Tubman being portrayed by a white woman.
On the other hand, we have people who believe that Julia Roberts playing Harriet Tubman is not that bad.
But if that wasn’t enough “In my opinion” goes on..
Whether people support it or not, there will always be the sub-category that just wants to talk about something else.
The bottom-line is Harriet Tubman is an icon within the African-American community. Her story is very important and valuable to the people that she led, and the descendants of her legacy. Her story should be told as authentically as possible. That means that Julia Roberts, should not play Harriet Tubman, and it shouldn’t of even been a conversation.
Comment below with your thoughts on the matter. Are there any other films that you feel were portrayed inaccurately? I would love to hear about it!
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