Diversity and inclusion in film address the importance of showcasing a broad spectrum of human experiences and identities, focusing on stories that enlighten audiences about different cultures, genders, sexual orientations, and abilities. These films not only serve to represent underrepresented groups but also to challenge stereotypes and foster a deeper understanding and empathy among viewers. By highlighting varied perspectives, such films contribute to breaking down barriers of misunderstanding and prejudice, celebrating the rich tapestry of human life.
“The Hate U Give”, 2018
Director: George Tillman Jr.
Based on the bestselling novel of the same name, this film tackles issues of racism and police violence. It follows the life of Starr Carter, an African-American teenager who navigates between the poor, mostly black, neighborhood where she lives and the wealthy, mostly white, prep school she attends, all while dealing with the aftermath of witnessing her unarmed friend's fatal shooting by a police officer.
Starring: Amandla Stenberg, Regina Hall, Russell Hornsby, Anthony Mackie, Issa Rae, Common, Algee Smith, Sabrina Carpenter, K.J. Apa, Dominique Fishback;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: drama, crime;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 133 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “The Hate U Give” on the website imdb.com
“Hidden Figures”, 2016
Director: Theodore Melfi
This inspiring true story highlights the contributions of three African-American female mathematicians at NASA during the Space Race. Facing both gender and racial discrimination, these brilliant women played critical roles in one of the greatest operations in U.S. history.
Starring: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monae, Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons, Mahershala Ali, Aldis Hodge, Glen Powell, Kimberly Quinn;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: drama, biography, history;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 127 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Hidden Figures” on the website imdb.com
“Crazy Rich Asians”, 2018
Director: Jon M. Chu
This film is a romantic comedy that brought Asian representation to Hollywood in a groundbreaking way, featuring an all-Asian cast. It tells the story of an Asian-American woman who travels to Singapore to meet her boyfriend's family, only to find out they are among the richest in the country.
Starring: Constance Wu, Henry Golding, Michelle Yeoh, Gemma Chan, Lisa Lu, Awkwafina, Harry Shum Jr., Ken Jeong, Sonoya Mizuno, Chris Pang;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 120 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,9;
More information about the film “Crazy Rich Asians” on the website imdb.com
“Parasite”, 2014
Director: Park Seong-woong
This South Korean black comedy thriller by Bong Joon-ho, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture, delves into class divide, greed, and discrimination, telling the story of two families at opposite ends of the socioeconomic spectrum who become entangled in an unexpected way.
Starring: -;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: documentary;
Age: 12+;
Rating: IMDB: 0;
“Love, Simon”, 2018
Director: Greg Berlanti
A coming-of-age story about a high schooler, Simon Spier, who has yet to tell his family or friends that he's gay and that he's fallen for an anonymous classmate online. It deals with the themes of identity, acceptance, and the importance of sincerity both to others and to oneself.
Starring: Nick Robinson, Jennifer Garner, Josh Duhamel, Katherine Langford, Alexandra Shipp, Logan Miller, Keiynan Lonsdale, Jorge Lendeborg Jr., Talitha Eliana Bateman, Tony Hale;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: drama, melodrama, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 110 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “Love, Simon” on the website imdb.com
“Booksmart”, 2019
Director: Olivia Wilde
A fresh take on the coming-of-age comedy, this film focuses on two graduating high school girls who realize they should have worked less and played more. Determined not to fall short of their peers, the girls set out on a mission to cram four years of fun into one night, challenging stereotypes about female friendship and teen life.
Starring: Kaitlyn Dever, Beanie Feldstein, Jessica Williams, Jason Sudeikis, Lisa Kudrow, Will Forte, Victoria Ruesga, Mason Gooding, Skyler Gisondo, Diana Silvers;
Production year: 2019;
Genre: comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 102 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “Booksmart” on the website imdb.com
“Wonder”, 2017
Director: Stephen Chbosky
Based on the New York Times bestseller, “Wonder” tells the inspiring and heartwarming story of August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who enters fifth grade, attending a mainstream elementary school for the first time. This film illustrates themes of acceptance, friendship, and the beauty of being different.
Starring: Jacob Tremblay, Owen Wilson, Izabela Vidovic, Julia Roberts, Noah Jupe, Mandy Patinkin, Daveed Diggs, Sonia Braga, Danielle Rose Russell, Nadji Jeter;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: drama, family;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 113 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
These films, among others, contribute significantly to ongoing conversations about diversity and inclusion, reflecting a range of experiences and bringing crucial issues to the forefront of society's consciousness.
In conclusion, films about diversity and inclusion not only serve as a mirror reflecting the rich tapestry of human experience but also as a beacon, guiding society towards understanding, empathy, and ultimately, acceptance. Through storytelling that transcends boundaries, these films challenge preconceptions, confront inequalities, and celebrate the unique differences that make us human. They are not merely entertainment; they are powerful tools for change, opening hearts and minds to the myriad of voices and perspectives that make up our world. As audiences embrace these stories, they contribute to a greater movement towards an inclusive society, where every individual, regardless of their background, is valued and included. Encompassing a range of genres, styles, and narratives, films about diversity and inclusion remind us of the strength found in our collective humanity and the endless possibilities that arise when we come together in understanding and respect.
