A lot of people are awaiting the arrival of the movie that will take their favorite manga, Ghost In The Shell to the big screen. And actress Scarlett Johansson, who plays the lead role in the film is already facing her fair share of controversy over her role. The title character is supposed to be Asian, but as we all well know, Johansson is white. And she is now being accused of “whitewashing”. In response to the backlash she is receiving for a film that hasn’t even been released yet, she spoke with Marie Claire magazine (the complete interview will appear in their March issue as a cover story) –
I certainly would never presume to play another race of a person. Diversity is important in Hollywood, and I would never want to feel like I was playing a character that was offensive. Also, having a franchise with a female protagonist driving it is such a rare opportunity. Certainly, I feel the enormous pressure of that – the weight of such a big property on my shoulder.
Johansson, who was crowned as the highest-grossing actress of all time, hasn’t been the only one who faced this accusation from the press and public. Oscar nominee and Golden Globe winner, La La Land actress Emma Stone was also accused of whitewashing when she played the lead in the film Aloha about a character that should have been of Hawaiian descent.
Also see: Scarlett Johansson separates from husband of two years, Romain Dauriac.
In speaking with the magazine, the Avengers actress also spoke out on the wage-gap and prevailing sexism in Hollywood –
Some people felt I should talk about my personal struggle in order to shed a spotlight on the greater issue. Maybe I’m being presumptuous, but I assumed it was obvious that women in all positions struggle for equality. It’s always an uphill battle and fight. It is really important to hear people in various positions of power voice their opinions, their story. Why can’t I use my platform? What’s the point of having it if you don’t use it? If you don’t want to get involved, please, the noise is loud enough. But if you’ve got something to say, say it.
Ghost In The Shell will release on March 31, 2017.
