Directed by: DT Sheridan Written by: Peter Duncanson Genre: Drama Length: 6.5 minutes |
White Man's Curse
I've heard different stories over the years on the origin of that word we are never supposed to use. The no-no-never word that makes anyone who is not a racist cringe. That word used for our dark skinned brothers and sisters of the world. The word itself is so taboo, that even alluding to it makes me feel dirty. As an aspiring writer there's not much I won't jot down and second guess. But that word is the exception, and unless you've been under a rock since birth, you know the word I'm talking about.
So let's talk about "White Man's Curse" more directly. This is a micro budget title that in under 7 minutes will make most people feel gross inside. Even if only a little bit. This is by design. Peter Duncanson who stars in this title, also wrote it. He has no problems laying everything out in the open. A quick visit to their website confirms this. As quoted by director DT Sheridan, this film should make people uncomfortable and self reflective. Possibly even ask how far we've really come. From the opening act audiences are reacquainted with real life. Showing us today's world, and how the word that rhymes with bigger is still used. "White Man's Curse" then quickly transports us back in time as 2 slaves meet up behind a house. What follows is a dialog pertaining to why one man needs to whip another. That's right. Whip. This conversation is stacked with dialog on what the 'massa' deems good, bad and trustworthy. It's very clear what Peter Duncanson is saying, and equally clear of his origin point for this particular word. It's use back then and use now both coming full circle. I did find a glimmer of hope here. Hidden within this title. It's the fact that Peter Duncanson picked DT Sheridan to direct. In case you're wondering, DT Sheridan is white. With this seemingly simple choice of directors, it seems Peter is reminding us that not everyone of the lighter skinned nature is a racist. You would think having a black director would make sense but it makes more sense, to not have one. I can't say if things would have been better or worse not having DT Sheridan direct; only that the choices we make define the people we are. To me, Peter Duncanson is allowing us to see the problem through the eyes of a person who's very lineage may show up as a slave driver. So far to come still. This is true. There's no arguing that strides have been made dealing with racism; but the long crawl continues. "White Man's Curse" bears all and tries to make you feel uncomfortable. That's the point. If enough people actually get it, maybe a few miles can be shaved from the journey. This title was potent and it rang true. I encourage anyone reading this to connect with this title online. When the time comes maybe spare a few minutes. |
