There was an announcement that @nyav_post & @GKIDSfilms cast a trans actress for the role of Hana in #TokyoGodfathers. Reading the comments I’m seeing some questions about why it matters. So here goes... (1/6)
Including #Diversity & #representation in your casting decisions is not about quotas or being PC. Every actor brings their life experience to each role. When you have a role that is part of a minority group, by casting from that group, you are enriching that role. (2/6)
The actor can offer different points of view, context & authenticity. This happened on #ASilentVoice when we cast a deaf actress, on #Funan with Khmer actors, on #Kingdom with Korean actors, & it happened o #TokyoGodfathers with @Shakeenz who is a fantastic actress PERIOD. (3/6)
The truth is minorities are often ONLY thought of for minority roles, suggesting that they are ONLY defined by their marginalization. So making an effort to cast representatively & diversely, you are providing opportunity & leveling out the playing field. (4/6)
Lastly, those posting if the actress is any good. Ask yourself do you post that question when there is a cast announcement for cisgender roles/actors? And to answer the question: she’s not only good. She’s perfect. @Shakeenz has Hana’s heart. That is what makes her perfect. (5/6)
I hope you all go see #TokyoGodfathers in theaters next month to see for yourself how much love and care was put into this film. I hope seeing it makes us all more compassionate humans. In the meantime, sending all of you love. Thank you for listening. Happy Valentine’s Day! ❤️
