Throughout the history of cinema, the narratives around who is permitted to tell specific stories have been fraught with contention. Hollywood’s storytelling has often excluded non-white, non-straight, non-cis male voices—a problem which persists into the present. A poignant example of the struggle surrounding representation can be seen in the backlash against Steven Spielberg directing “The Color Purple,” an issue he commented on during an interview with Entertainment Weekly in 2011:
“Most of the criticism came from directors that felt that we had overlooked them and that it should have been a Black director telling a Black story. That was the main criticism.[…]”
Individuals contended that the role of the director should have belonged to someone who could narrate the story authentically. Despite Spielberg’s acclaimed track record, his directorial approach to “The Color Purple” often seemed at odds with the source material, handling severe themes with a lightness that did not always resonate appropriately.
Spielberg himself acknowledges, “The other criticism was that I had softened the book. I have always copped to that,” again in his dialogue with EW. Moreover, he noted Alice Walker’s consistent presence on the set and her opportunity to correct the direction if it didn’t align with her vision.
FAQs About Steven Spielberg and “The Color Purple” Controversy
- Why did Steven Spielberg face criticism for directing “The Color Purple”?
Spielberg faced criticism because many believed a Black director should have been chosen to tell this particular story, which dealt with African-American experiences and issues. - Did Steven Spielberg recognize any issues with his direction of the film?
Yes, Spielberg admitted to softening the intense themes of the book and recognized that this was a point of contention among critics and audiences. - Was author Alice Walker involved in the film production?
According to Spielberg, Alice Walker was present during filming and had the opportunity to provide input into how scenes were depicted.
Conclusion
Steven Spielberg’s role as director of “The Color Purple” continues to generate discussion around storytelling authority and representation in Hollywood. While Spielberg’s attempt to adapt Alice Walker’s poignant narrative was met with both critical acclaim and critique, the conversation underscores the broader industry need for diverse voices behind the camera, particularly when it comes to culturally specific stories. As these dialogues progress, it’s crucial to acknowledge past oversights and strive for a cinema that celebrates and legitimizes a multiplicity of perspectives.