Race is a topic that has long been prevalent in entertainment, with movies and plays portraying various aspects of it. However, comedians and actors like Dean Edwards are taking a different approach to it - creating a parody about racially themed Oscar award bait movies like The Help, Green Book, Black Panthers, and Django Unchained. Recently, Dean stopped by Sway In The Morning to talk about his role as 'Gene' in the play Race: The Movie: The Play, currently running at The Soho Playhouse.
Dean Edwards plays the character of Gene, a super successful and highly cultured musician. Gene and his brash, ignorant yet lovable driver embark on a road trip, where their series of misadventures lead to their enslavement and a quest for freedom. The play was created as a skit called Not Another Slave Movie and has now taken the form of a slapstick parody that combines the comic genius of Blazing Saddles and The Hollywood Shuffle.
According to Dean, the play is relevant because it offers a tongue-in-cheek commentary on Hollywood by taking on the tropes of Oscar-bait movies based on Black life experiences. The actor shared that he feels that these kinds of movies usually depict how white people overcome their own racist views and become the saviors of the Black experience, and that's where the idea behind Race came from. In contrast, Race shows how Black people, through their strengths and resilience, can stand up for themselves and find ways to overcome obstacles presented by oppressive systems.
Dean spoke about the challenges that came with his role as Gene, stating that he had to tap into a vulnerable side of himself, which he had not explored before. He shared how the team had several readings before the filming began, and they made some changes to the storyline to make the play more relatable to everyone and ensure that the humor was right.
Race: The Movie: The Play premiered in March and is currently running all month at The Soho Playhouse. Dean emphasized in his interview that he believes the play is not just for Black people, but for everyone who wants to challenge problematic portrayals of race in the media. The actor hopes that the play sparks dialogue that will help people think about the way they consume entertainment and bring about social change.
Race: The Movie: The Play offers a unique perspective and an alternative approach to conversations about race in entertainment. The play is a critical reflection of the portrayal of Black lives in Hollywood, and its message is essential now more than ever. Dean Edwards and his team's efforts to create this play are commendable, and we hope that it continues to receive the much-needed attention it deserves. If you are looking for a funny yet thought-provoking play to watch, go check out Race: The Movie: The Play.
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20 авг 2024
