Lecture Notes: Hollywood's Portrayal of Arabs

Introduction

• Arabs are historically portrayed negatively in Hollywood films, often as subhuman.
• This portrayal has lasted more than a century, mirroring Nazi propaganda against Jews and Gypsies.

Background

• Over 1,000 films analyzed in "Reel Bad Arabs: How Hollywood Vilifies a People."
• These films show a consistent pattern of hateful Arab stereotypes.
• Stereotypes rob the Arab people of their humanity.

Origins of Arab Stereotypes

• Derived from European (British and French) depictions of the Middle East 150-200 years ago.
• Artists and writers fabricated these images which were transmitted and embellished by Hollywood.

Stereotypes in Films

• Arabland: A fictional, threatening desert setting often used in films.
• Disney's Aladdin: Recycled degrading stereotypes.
• Film Tropes: Arabs depicted as villains, buffoons, or comic relief.
• Lecherous Arab: Portrayed as obsessed with Western women, seen in films like "Jewel of the Nile."
• Gratuitous Slurs and Jokes: Seen in films like "Father of the Bride Part II" and "Back to the Future."

Historical and Political Influence

• Post-World War II events: Palestinian-Israeli conflict, Arab oil embargo, Iranian Revolution shaped negative portrayals.
• Films depict Arabs as economic threats, akin to anti-Semitic Nazi propaganda.
• Palestinians in Film: Often portrayed as terrorists in films like "Exodus" and "Black Sunday."

Depictions of Arab Women

• Historically shown as exotic dancers or veiled submissives.
• Recent depictions include terrorists, reflecting political tensions.

Hollywood and U.S. Politics

• Hollywood and Washington share ideological narratives, reinforcing each other.
• Films often reflect U.S. foreign policy biases toward the Middle East.

Changing Perceptions

• Rise of Arab-American filmmakers and comedians challenging stereotypes.
• Notable films challenging stereotypes: "Three Kings," "Kingdom of Heaven," "Syriana," "Hideous Kinky," and "Paradise Now."

Modern Islamophobia

• Post-9/11 events exacerbated negative stereotypes.
• News media often prematurely link terrorism with Middle Eastern people.
• Hate crimes and profiling of Arabs and Muslims have increased.

Conclusion

• Stereotypes perpetuated by film are deeply ingrained but can be unlearned.
• Progress is being made by young filmmakers and through comedy.
• Importance of speaking out against regular vilification of any group.