In a groundbreaking move, Disney has announced that Charmaine Obad Channoy, a feminist director, will be at the helm of the next Star Wars movie. Obad Channoy will become both the first woman and the first person of color to direct a film in this iconic franchise, which has garnered a massive following over the years.
Obad Channoy has expressed her excitement about the project, stating that she believes something special is about to be created. She believes it is high time for a woman to shape the story in a galaxy far, far away. While some may question her intentions, citing a clip from 2015 where Obad Channoy states her enjoyment in making men uncomfortable, it is important to note that her prior work speaks for itself. She has won two Oscars and seven Emmys, and is the only person to have achieved two directing Oscars by the age of 37.
The decision to hire Obad Channoy as the director of the upcoming Star Wars movie comes amidst a contentious time for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts in Hollywood. Many companies are facing backlash for their lack of commitment to these values, while Disney is doubling down on its commitment to diversify its productions.
However, there have been concerns about Disney's focus on DEI and whether it aligns with the desires of its customer base. Some critics argue that companies should prioritize customer satisfaction rather than pandering to certain ideologies. Mentioning Budweiser as an example, where a customer continues to boycott the brand due to past controversies involving toxic masculinity, it is evident that companies must find a balance in their approach.
Regarding the Star Wars franchise, some people have questioned the need for a director who aims to make the audience uncomfortable. However, it should be noted that the series has already taken steps toward diversity, with female leads in films such as 'Rogue One' and the miniseries. Ultimately, the success of the upcoming Star Wars movie will depend on the reception from fans.
The broader discussion around DEI has also sparked criticisms, with claims that it has become a tool for large corporations to appear virtuous while neglecting other important aspects, such as fair policies and customer satisfaction. The overemphasis on DEI recruitment has led to an oversaturated pool of candidates, potentially compromising the quality of the hiring process for companies.
In the midst of this, Al Sharpton led a protest in front of billionaire Bill Ackman's house, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding DEI practices. The protest brought attention to the deeper agenda behind DEI initiatives, suggesting that some see it as a means to gain influence and profit.
While DEI remains a controversial topic, it is clear that Disney is determined to make strides towards inclusion in the Star Wars franchise. Only time will tell how fans will respond to the new direction of the series, and whether it will pay off both artistically and at the box office. In the ever-changing landscape of Hollywood, companies face the challenge of balancing their commitment to diversity with the interests of their consumers.
