Representation of African Americans in Genre Films of USA in 2010s: Communicative Aspect

Last year, as we all can agree, was challenging in many ways. Suddenly the world was in the midst of pandemic which was the result of the Covid-19 outbreak all over the world. In addition to epidemiological catastrophe, United States of America faced their own political struggle which was closely connected to racism in its almost invisible form – systematic. For that part, institutional racism grew its power from legislation, history but most importantly – visual and semiotic narratives which have been evolving during the entire history of America from its inception, created certain status quo regarding topics of race and identity of American people. Hollywood film industry played a big role in that process, mostly because there was internal disproportion of people involved in producing films. Films in general are the mirror of the epoch, very rudimental and limited in terms of diversity, but that observation helps researches and scientists understand more clearly how society operates itself during certain period of time. Hollywood of the 20th century is no exception, as well as modern day American cinema industry, including independent scene. In that article I would like to scope how racial representation of African American population in mainstream and independent industries of American filmmaking made it possible, at first to reduce their agency to rudimental and stereotypes images, but then to become a cornerstone of emancipation and struggle for liberation. Methodology. In thesis I intent to obtain several different methods which will help to deconstruct such complicated subjects of race, agency, gender. First and foremost, study utilizes Сritical theory of 1970’s, especially its critical race theory agenda. Secondly, Concept of representation suggested by Stuart Hall, and, finally, the ideas of colorblind and colorconscious approach towards racial identity. Findings. In 21th century we observe drastic changes towards the way we examine vital issues of representation and inclusion of minorities in our daily social, political and cultural activities in the media. Thus, everyday changes of the political landscapes ensure new vision how we as a society address such topics while struggling toward new world order. Main parts of the study. Firstly, I would like to establish connection between the past and the present. The overview of the golden era of Hollywood, especially in terms of racial preferences and representation of people of color. Although, they were present in the industry, their roles very rudimental, meaning by design set of roles available for people of color to represent were limited and depended on stereotypes and their historic place throughout history of the United States of America. Main body will examine modern cinema, both feature and documentary genres, while using presented critical theory as established methodological tools. Conclusion will embody main outcomes how filmmakers of modern era step-by-step change the way we, as a society, interact with race, identity and agency on the example of African American people.