| |
| author |
Helen Navas Carrera
| | title |
Mediated Images of Latinxs: Histories, Agendas, and Repercussions
| | abstract |
Media representation has favored the dominant white population since the inception of
the Hollywood film system. Because of this dynamic, Latinxs have been relegated to portraying
one-dimensional supporting roles. From the bandido, Latin lover, and harlot stereotypes to more
recent female clown and dark lady hybrids, Latinx actors have existed in media as simpletons.
As a result, the dominant white racial caste at the head of Hollywood has eulogized itself and
disparaged those that fall outside of this accepted group. Over recent years, Latinxs have gained
more media visibility, and this change has called for the scrutiny of newer media representations.
In this thesis, I add to the literature of media studies by analyzing three films I deem 'Latinx-
centered political resistance films.' I begin my study by giving an overview of Latinx
representation in media from its inception in the early 1900s to the 1970s. I then provide a brief
contextual summary of the era during which each film was released, as well as outline specific
genre conventions that delineate the outcomes of each film. The three contemporary films I
discuss are: My Family/Mi Familia (Nava, 1995), Frontera (Berry, 2014), and In the Heights
(Chu, 2021). In providing the history of Latinx representation in film, the agenda of specific
genres, and a critical analysis of each film, I outline the repercussions of the mediated images of
Latinxs. Ultimately, this thesis aims to explore whether Hollywood's political-resistance films
are effective in subverting previous racist filmic representations while simultaneously working
within the film system that has historically oppressed the Latinx population.
| | school |
The College of Liberal Arts, Drew University
| | degree |
B.A. (2022)
|
| advisor |
Evan Johnson
|
| full text | HNavasCarrera.pdf |
| |
