Racism In The Film The Hurricane

In the film 'The Hurricane' directed by Normal Jewison an important message that the character Rubin helps us understand is that of Racism. Jewison shows the viewer that the victims of racism have their lives destroyed and become aggressive because of the inequality served to them. We are also shown how unprotected victims of racism are, and how they are always in danger of becoming the target to blame things on. However Jewison directed this film to change these attitudes so towards the end of the film we have a hint of hope as we see that society can change for the better. These ideas are devolved through the use of film techniques such as dialogue, camera work, lighting and sound effects.

The victims of racism are brought down and diminished …show more content…
The character of Rubin helps us understand this when we hear the loud, piercing sound effect of the police sirens used as a warning sign for Rubin. Which is ironic, as police sirens are usually a sign of help and security, but for Rubin, where he is a victim of racism, the police sirens are a sound of danger. This sound effect is also combined with red lighting from the siren, casting black shadows, creating an eerie, dangerous feel. This shows how racism puts you on high alert, making it feel as if no where is safe. Not only that but it also shows how racism has caused corruption of our society. When even the people who are known for keeping you safe have fallen into the trap of racism, that just shows how much it has spread. It helps convey to us the danger Rubin feels, as even the police aren't going to protect him. These techniques help bring out the theme of racism and how the inferior are never safe. The directors purpose of using this technique was to show how alone and unprotected Rubin and everyone who is coloured is. It helps us highlight how unfair it is that some of us are favoured and protected and others are treated like trash. It also shows how deceiving things can be, you would presume the police protect everyone, but they only really protect those who are superior. This teaches us that looks can be deceiving and that we shouldn't make the assumptions that we make, as things are often different than they appear. I believe it is unfair that the superior are protected while the inferior are thrown under the bus if need be. In our society we need to try and eliminate this inequality so justice can be served to all, not only the