Angelia Jolie in Brownface

Angelina in brownface

First, Angelina isn't that outstanding of an actress that she's more worthy than all actresses of color to play this role. Who knows what the politics/scheduling/money situation of this casting decision was, but surely there was someone qualified who was available.

Second, this is the type of movie that will probably have a lot of awards buzz around it. And Jolie's part will likely be that part that gets the attention. Especially since most of the awards for actresses are given out for roles that are submissive, overly sexual or oppressed in someway. So here we have a strong female role that would have been such a wonderful opportunity for an actress of color. Even a little bit of color. But no, the role goes to Ms. Jolie in bronzer and a wig.

I've been amazed at the people who have said, "oh, it's no big deal. where are you going to find a half-black or black-mixed race actress anyway?" well, there's:
Halle Berry
Thandie Newton
Jennifer Beals
Lisa Bonet
Rosario Dawson
Jasime Guy
Sabrinna LeBeauf
Michael Michele
Tia Mowry
Tamara Mowry
Tracee Ellis Ross
Sophie Okonedo
Sydney Tamalia Poitier
Rain Pryor
Maya Rudolph
Rachel True
Persia White

Just to name a few. Not to mention all the young hopefulls out here who would love a chance at a movie like this.

Good, meaty roles for women are already few and far between. Good, meaty roles for black women are even more disparate.

The problem is that even if she pulls this role off--and she's good enough to do that. That doesn't make this a good decision. Chances are, that the attention will go to her for being able to embody another race, another culture, rather than focusing on why the powers that be decided to deny this role to an different actress who physically fit the part better.

Hell, the production could have saved some money on the full-body bronzer. That stuff's expensive!