DUBAI: Hollywood blockbusters have long faced accusations of whitewashing — when Western actors are cast as international characters.
‘Aladdin’
British actress Naomi Scott, whose mother is Indian, plays the role of Jasmine in the upcoming live-action remake of the Disney classic. The casting choice has come under fire online as many have called for an Arab actress to take on the role.
‘Prince of Persia’
Disney cast American actor Jake Gyllenhaal in the 2010 film adaptation of the video game about a hero from the Middle East.
‘Batman Begins’
American actor Liam Neeson plays the villainous Ra’s al Ghul in Christopher Nolan’s “Batman Begins,” but the character is of Arab descent in the DC Comic books.
‘Exodus: Gods and Monsters’
Director Ridley Scott came under fire for casting British actor Christian Bale and Australian actor Joel Edgerton in his 2014 Biblical drama that saw Bale play Moses and Edgerton as Ramesses II.
‘Whisky Tango Foxtrot’
Christopher Abbott and Alfred Molina were cast as Afghan characters in this 2016 comedy starring Tina Fey.
‘Lawrence of Arabia’
British actor Alec Guinness was cast as the Arab Prince Faisal in this 1962 epic. The blow is lessened, however, as legendary Egyptian actor Omar Sharif also starred in the film.
