http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1496419233001?bctid=4782799229001
Critics outraged that Zoe Saldana will play the late Nina Simone in an upcoming biopic have launched a boycott page on change.org.
"Getting light-complexioned actors to play the roles of dark-complexioned historical figures is not only a sign of blatant disrespect to the persons they are portraying, but it is also disrespectful to their families, to history, to the people who look like the persons being whitewashed, and to the intelligence of the audience," it reads.
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Credit: Jennifer Brett
Credit: Jennifer Brett
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The movie, "Nina," stars David Oyelowo as her manager Clifton Henderson, Mike Epps as comedian Richard Pryor and Ella Thomas as writer Lorraine Hansberry. It's due out in April.
Critics behind the protest site note they don't dispute Saldana's talents but blast the choice to cast her as Simone: "For too long Hollywood has gotten away with this practice of revisionist history and it is time that we let our voices be heard, be it by this petition or by boycotting the movie if no change has been made as to who will portray Nina Simone. This is not a diss to Zoe Saldana. She is an excellent actress, but this movie role so much bigger than her undeniable talent."
Here's some social media commentary:
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