Controversy is the last thing I want on this blog, and with the mere mention of the 1946 Disney film, Song of the South, controversy is bound to turn her head. I'm willing to take that chance though, because of the wonderful performance in that film by actor, James Baskett.
The film portrays a very cheerful view of African American life right after the Civil War. And while a positive attitude is always a plus, the singing of Zip-a-dee-doo-dah will never change the fact that African Americans (free or not) to this day are still experiencing horrific treatment. And to sugar coat the lives of former slaves (even for a kids film) is a disservice to an entire race.
That being said, Uncle Remus was the signature role for James Baskett and by Disney keeping Song of the South buried in their vaults, means that his work is buried as well. Is this fair? Well, what is fair?
Was it fair that James Baskett was not allowed to attend the premiere of Song of the South in Atlanta because of segregation laws? Was it fair that he was given an honorary Oscar for his performance because in 1946 the Academy was afraid to nominate a black man in a leading role? And is it fair that an actor's best work is not available for the world to see?
No answers. Just questions. And any opinion one has will bound to be disagreed upon by someone else.The only thing I know for sure is that James Baskett is Not Very Famous...but should be.
The film portrays a very cheerful view of African American life right after the Civil War. And while a positive attitude is always a plus, the singing of Zip-a-dee-doo-dah will never change the fact that African Americans (free or not) to this day are still experiencing horrific treatment. And to sugar coat the lives of former slaves (even for a kids film) is a disservice to an entire race.
That being said, Uncle Remus was the signature role for James Baskett and by Disney keeping Song of the South buried in their vaults, means that his work is buried as well. Is this fair? Well, what is fair?
Was it fair that James Baskett was not allowed to attend the premiere of Song of the South in Atlanta because of segregation laws? Was it fair that he was given an honorary Oscar for his performance because in 1946 the Academy was afraid to nominate a black man in a leading role? And is it fair that an actor's best work is not available for the world to see?
No answers. Just questions. And any opinion one has will bound to be disagreed upon by someone else.The only thing I know for sure is that James Baskett is Not Very Famous...but should be.
