Media Reflection #4

 In my film, my primary responsibility would be to ensure that groups of people are properly represented. It’s important to me that I don’t contribute to any harmful stereotypes about gender, race, ethnicity, or age groups. I feel this responsibility deeply because I know how it feels to be judged or to be misunderstood based on stereotypes about my own gender, age, and ethnicity. It’s a frustrating and hurtful experience, and I wouldn’t want to add on to a stereotype like that.  The way groups are represented in media can have a significant impact on how they are perceived in real life. I believe filmmakers have a duty to portray people accurately and thoughtfully, especially because media can shape societal views. Over time, there has been poor representation of how it is handled in films. If we look back at films from the 2000s, many relied heavily on stereotypes, often for comedic purposes. Movies like White Chicks or Mean Girls are some I can think of. They leaned on exaggerated depictions that didn’t always reflect reality.  Fortunately, recent years have shown improvements in representation. Films like Hidden Figures and Crazy Rich Asians portray a better representation of cultures, races, and gender. These movies not only entertain but also educate and broaden perspectives, providing audiences with a deeper understanding of the experiences and cultures they depict. As a filmmaker, I hope to follow this trend and contribute to the positive evolution of representation in media.  Ultimately, my goal is to create stories that resonate with people and portray diverse groups in ways that are both authentic and respectful. I want my work to break down stereotypes rather than reinforce them, ensuring that all audiences feel seen, heard, and understood.