Over the years Hollywood has produced a vivid record of the immigrant
experience in America. Although many movies are controversial on matters
of fact, they nonetheless provide a valuable insight into how immigrants
are seen and represented in the mainstream.
The film industry is significantly positioned to examine America’s
changing cultural identity and bring to the public’s attention the
stories of immigrant communities. Ever since the 1920s studios have
presented audiences with dramatized accounts of the individual
immigrant’s experience adjusting to America and their attempts at upward
mobility. Be they nostalgic or critical, such films helped fill a gap in
the general public’s knowledge and pave the way for more socially
conscious filmmaking.
In recent years, films have explored subjects that include the plight of
undocumented migrants, the barriers faced by subsequent generations,
competition among ethnic groups and problems of acculturation. These
films reflect a more factually accurate, activist approach to
representing the immigrant experience. Series including Ugly Betty and
Modern Family and films such as Gran Torino featuring immigrant-related
stories have moved hearts and minds and are informing opinions on
immigration in America today.
With this in mind, the Paley Center for Media, The Opportunity Agenda,
and Unbound Philanthropy have gathered a panel of actors, producers,
writers, and industry leaders for a thought-provoking dialogue regarding
media’s impact on the issue of immigration. Panelists will discuss the
myriad ways in which the creative and business communities can engage
audiences in this topic as it becomes increasingly significant both
politically and socially.
The event will feature conversations with:
Bruce Evans, Senior Vice President, Current Programming, NBC
Alan Jenkins, Executive Director, The Opportunity Agenda
Tony Plana, “Ignacio Suarez,” Ugly Betty
Angelica Salas, Executive Director, Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles
Nick Schenk, Screenwriter, Gran Torino
Ligiah Villalbos, Screenwriter, Under the Same Moon
Moderator: Emanuel Levy, Film & Media Critic
Immigrants in America: A Hollywood Perspective
Monday, May 3, 2010
7:00 pm PT
Los Angeles
Tickets are free, but RSVPs are required. Click here to register.
