Isabella Scavo

Abstract:

This paper examines the impact that color-blind and color-conscious casting methods have in entertainment media. Color-blind casting involves casting an actor based on talent, regardless of their race, gender or other attributes. The color-conscious method is when a director is hyper-aware of these factors and makes intentional casting choices. Incorporating popular and scholarly articles, this paper demonstrates the impact casting has on storytelling. It argues that color-blind casting methods harm storytelling while color-conscious casting methods enhance it. It expresses why we need authenticity in order to tell the most impactful narratives. Without authentic representation, the lessons of a narrative are lost. Including these informed casting methods results in improved ratings, a wider audience, and higher earnings. This is causing a ripple effect, and society is seeing people with disabilities, people from the LGBTQ+ community, and other underrepresented communities get their chance to finally have their voices heard.