Colorism: ‘Lilo and Stitch’ Live Action Remake Controversy

The film’s casting was heavily criticized, due to the choice of actress who will play the character of Nani.

Like many Disney classics, a live-action remake of lilo and point, cult cartoon of the 2000s is in the works. If the production releases information drop by drop, the choice of actors was revealed on April 14th.

After launch Maya Kealohaa young actress still unknown to the general public to play Lilo, ie Zach Galifianakis (seen in very bad trip) for a still unknown role, that of Sidney Agudong playing Nani created a controversy.

Read also: “Keep your skin as clear as possible”: what it is colorismthat rages in Asia, Africa and the West?

For this reason, a choice criticized for its colorism, discrimination deriving from racism which consists in favoring people with lighter skin to the detriment of people with darker skin. Here the actress is considered too bright compared to the cartoon character.

In fact, Nani has rather dark skin, while the actress chosen to interpret her role is a Métis with a light complexion. Also, Sydney Agudong not being of Hawaiian descent, this choice is then pointed to for her whitening.

“Not being native to a community of color, it might not be obvious to see a problem with this casting, but within our community, it’s a big deal. No offense to Sydney, Nani is a native Hawaiian with sharp physical features and dark skin. This casting is blatant colorism. »

Released in 2002, lilo and point tells the story of a friendship between a young Hawaiian, Lilo, and an alien, Stitch. When the latter arrives on Earth, he is greeted by Lilo and her sister Nani. The live action version will be directed by Dean Fleischer Campbest known for Marcel, the Shell (with his shoes). For now, neither Disney nor Sydney Agudong have reacted to the controversy.