Art has always been a reflection of the world around us. From the Renaissance paintings that depicted biblical scenes to the modern-day blockbuster films that tackle social issues, art has a way of reflecting the zeitgeist of its time. This is especially true when it comes to the genre of science fiction. For centuries, science fiction has been a way for authors and filmmakers to explore social issues in a hypothetical setting. However, one issue that has persistently been left out of the conversation is the lack of diversity among its characters. In particular, Black characters are sorely underrepresented in science fiction. This is not only disappointing from a creative standpoint, but it also says something about the state of our society. In a world where Black people are still fighting for equality, it's no surprise that they are largely absent from a genre that imagines a future utopia. If art is supposed to reflect life, then the lack of Black characters in science fiction is a sad commentary on our current reality.
Whether turning on the TV or tapping into the real world, a shared truth that connects the two is that there is a lack of Black representation both onscreen and off-screen in STEM. In 2015, only 9% of women in engineering were Black, and less than 5% of practicing physicians were Black women according to The Huffington Post. To combat this, Showtime’s “The Man Who Fell to Earth,” demonstrates the importance of showcasing how the Black community excels in science on all fronts. The show follows the life of Dr. Cleveland Campbell, who is one of the first Black astronauts, as he battles with PTSD and tries to maintain healthy relationships with his family and friends. While the show realistically portrays some of the hardships that Black people face in America, it also celebrates the successes of the Black community by highlighting Dr. Campbell’s exceptional career in science. In doing so, “The Man Who Fell to Earth” serves as an important reminder that Black people are not only capable of success in STEM fields, but that we are also essential to the future of science and technology.
The new sci-fi show "The Faraday Effect" follows an alien on a mission to save the planet. The alien, Faraday, is in need of the help of Justin, a single mother that had to hold off on her career as a scientist to take care of her family. Justin is hesitant to help Faraday at first, but she eventually agrees to help him in his mission. The two work together to try to save the planet from an impending doom. The show is full of action and suspense, and it is sure to keep viewers entertained. Ejiofor and Harris give great performances, and the chemistry between them is undeniable. The Faraday Effect is a must-watch for any sci-fi fan.
When Walter Tevis’ “The Man Who Fell to Earth” was adapted for the big screen in 1976, it became an instant cult classic. Starring David Bowie as an alien who comes to Earth in search of water for his dying planet, the film was a visually stunning exploration of otherness and alienation. Now, nearly 45 years later, “The Man Who Fell to Earth” has been adapted for television by Jenny Lumet and Alex Kurtzman. While the new series is set in the present day, it still retains the core themes of the original story. Bowie’s character, Thomas Jerome Newton, is now played by Denver-native ridge, and the story has been updated to reflect the current political climate. With its timely themes and visually arresting aesthetic, “The Man Who Fell to Earth” is sure to find a whole new legion of fans.
Ejiofor shared with AfroTech that he was really engaged with the story on some level. He said that he thought the story was rich and that Kurtzman and Lumet had done a great job of bringing it to life in a modern way. Ejiofor said that he could relate to the story on a human level and that it made him think about what an alien might make of us if they were observing us from afar. Ejiofor said that he thinks the story has the potential to be a classic and he is honored to be a part of it.
When Showtime’s “The Chi” returns for its third season on Sunday, viewers will see a different side to the Windy City.Focusing on the daily lives of black residents on the South Side, the show has been praised for its realistic portrayal of the city. Despite being set in one of the most segregated cities in the country, “The Chi” offers a unique perspective on race relations in America.
However, what sets “The Chi” apart from other shows is its representation of black women. According to a report from UCLA’s Bunche Center, only 10 percent of television shows feature black women as a lead or co-lead. This lack of representation is even more pronounced behind the scenes, with only 7 percent of directors and 5 percent of writers being black women.
This is why series creator Lena Waithe is so excited to have Tiffany Boone join the cast this season. Boone, who is best known for her role on “The Following,” will play Mia, a headstrong teenager who is determined to make her mark on the world. Waithe believes that Boone’s addition will help bring more visibility to black women in the entertainment industry.
It is clear that black girls have been traditionally underrepresented in the field of science. This is not only damaging to the girls themselves, but it also has a negative impact on society as a whole. When black girls are not exposed to science, they are not given the opportunity to explore their potential in this area. As a result, they may grow up feeling that they are not capable of pursuing careers in science. Fortunately, shows like "Hidden Figures" are helping to change this perception. By featuring black women who have made significant contributions to the field of science, "Hidden Figures" is inspiring a new generation of black girls to pursue their dreams. In addition to providing role models, the show is also helping to debunk the stereotype that science is a white man's domain. As more black girls become interested in science, it is likely that we will see a surge in the number of black women scientists in the years to come.
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