Nia Long has a résumé full of classic films of genres such as comedies and dramas, often classified as “Black Films”. Unfortunately, she doesn’t feel the same way.
The 52-year-old actress recently talked about why she thinks it’s harmful in Hollywood to separate Black-starred films from other genres.
Why Nia Long wants to integrate in the film categories
Buzzfeed chats with Long about her casting process since she first hit the big screen as Brandi in Boys in the vicinity. Then the question of how Black films were labeled was raised. Best Man: The Last Chapters actress.
I feel like sometimes roles choose me if it makes sense. Whenever I really want something, it never happens. So I almost just know that I’m not responsible for that. I have this saying, “I am used to telling stories, inspiring people, and acting as a voice, so I will just trust the process.” If I read a script and I like it, and I say, “I have to do it,” then I do.
Continuing the topic, the outlet spoke to the actress about people labeling certain actors as “Famous Blacks” and streaming services labeling their movies as “Black Movies.” . Nia shares that she feels those terms make the movies a farce — even though they seem to come from a positive space.
Nia told BuzzFeed: “I think terms like that get in the way of us. “And sometimes I have to reassure myself, because I’m so proud of who I am.”
The actress added that she’s proud to be Black and that she’s proud to be represented despite the differences in categories.
When I use the word Black, I don’t use it as a way to distinguish myself from anyone – I use it as a way to put an exclamation point behind our greatness, because I don’t think that is always honored and recognized. But I am also a lover of humanity and people and accept all good people, so multiculturalism is equally important to me. But I’m here to represent who we are, and if you want to go on the trip, everyone is welcome!
