Debates on whether or not certain films should be removed from live-steaming and wide-available platforms have increased over the past decade. While there are pros and cons to every side, this one might be an exception.
From the TV shows you watch to the classified documentaries in museums, they all tell stories about the lived experiences of others while educating the public in a friendly way. Movies and films should be kept on live-streaming platforms to continue providing educational material to the public. With that being said, movies and films as a whole should be kept in spaces where necessary; where white privilege is present. Black and Brown individuals should not continue to be subject to trauma and recall their own lived experiences by watching documentaries of things themselves have experienced. It is also important to note, and take into account when films are made, as they may no longer serve the same purpose as they once did when first released. The film titled Gone With The Wind (1939) demonstrates the tragic history of the south during the Civil War. Images and storytelling components are often outdated and the audience in modern history today may not understand or necessarily “get” the main message of the story. This film from 1939 has gaps in between that may hinder such audience members from learning.
Similarly, the film titled Birth of a Nation (2016) discusses the experiences of those enslaved. By using more modern and real-world experiences, this film is able to dive deeper into the meaning and make today’s audience members more engaged to learn the history behind the war itself. From the images to the pictures used, individuals are able to learn and discuss the film more freely compared to a film released in 1939; before men were born. The words in this film are easier to understand and grasp compared to the film Gone With The Wind (1939). This is due to the generational evolution of language and grammar used.
Nonetheless, both films, both old and new should continue on mainstream media as it allows us to preserve history, while educating the privileged; White individuals. With that being said, films should not be filled with trauma, blood, or horrific scenes. There are ways for film directors to tell history and get the story across without placing the mental health of others at risk. The films should be free and should be available to everyone, not only college students. They should include background statements, and contexts for the audience ahead of time and also display trigger warnings when a horrific scene is to be played. Including these minor details will allow audience members in educational spaces to continue fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment to all. I encourage you to pay attention to these components next time you watch a movie, you may be surprised.