Final answer:
Hollywood has historically depicted Palestinians and broader Middle Eastern characters as irrational and violent, reflecting stereotypes critiqued by Edward Said. Despite criticism and calls for change, such depictions have persisted. The industry's control by white male executives plays a role in perpetuating these narratives, although films like 'Black Panther' showcase the potential for more equitable representation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hollywood movies have often perpetuated stereotypical portrayals of Palestinians, as well as broader Muslim and Middle Eastern characters. This depiction frequently paints such characters as irrational and violent, as highlighted by Edward Said's critique of orientalism. These narratives are not only present in historical depictions but have also found their way into modern cinema and can influence contemporary perspectives on political and social issues.
For instance, the 1992 Disney film Aladdin came under scrutiny for its lyrics, which were criticized for perpetuating barbaric stereotypes of Middle Eastern culture, leading to later revisions. Further reinforcing these stereotypes, films like the 1994 thriller True Lies depict Arab characters as terrorists. This trend extends to the representation of Palestinian figures in the context of political tensions and conflicts, which are often simplified and do not accurately reflect the complex realities of Palestinian lives under occupation and their individual agency.
It's also important to consider that Hollywood's representations are influenced by the perspectives and interests of those in positions of power within the industry, often white male executives, as pointed out by film scholars such as Manthia Diawara. The successful depiction of diverse characters, as seen in Black Panther, contrasts with the ongoing exclusion and negative portrayal of Palestinian characters and demonstrates the potential for more balanced and humanizing portrayals that challenge the status quo.