Green Book Film Analysis - Sugiarto Muljadi, CSUN COMS 321

Green Book Film Analysis Sugiarto Muljadi CSUN COMS 321 Prof. Darla Ander

Green Book is a 2018 American comedy-drama film that explores racial and social themes through the journey of two contrasting characters: Tony Lip, an Italian-American bouncer, and Dr. Donald Shirley, an African-American classical and jazz pianist. The film is set against the backdrop of 1960s America, a period marked by deep racial segregation and discrimination, especially in the southern United States. This paper analyzes the film's portrayal of social stratification, racial prejudice, and humanistic values, highlighting how it reflects historical realities, challenges stereotypes, and promotes empathy.

Social stratification in the United States during the 1960s was heavily influenced by race, class, and geographical location. The film vividly demonstrates how racial segregation shaped everyday experiences, particularly for African Americans, who faced systemic barriers that limited their mobility and access to basic services. This is exemplified through the depiction of the Green Book, a travel guide published by Victor Hugo Green, which listed safe places for Black travelers to eat, stay, and seek refuge. The existence of such a guide underscores the pervasiveness of racial discrimination and the necessity for Black Americans to navigate a hostile environment carefully (Diamond, 2018).

The Green Book served as a crucial instrument for Black travelers, providing information that could mean the difference between safety and danger. It covered various establishments that would accept Black patrons, regardless of the blatant racism that could be encountered elsewhere. As such, the Green Book not only functioned as a practical navigation tool but also as a symbol of resilience and ingenuity within the African-American community. The film effectively portrays the complexities of navigating a segregated society, emphasizing the psychological and emotional toll on those subjected to pervasive prejudice.

The film's narrative emphasizes the transformative potential of cross-racial interactions and the importance of understanding and empathy. Tony's initial prejudiced views are challenged through his interaction with Shirley, a refined and educated Black musician who confronts Tony's stereotypes and biases. Conversely, Shirley’s resistance to the condescension of Southern whites highlights his resilience and dignity. These exchanges exemplify humanistic ideals, including respect for individual dignity, empathy, and the recognition of shared humanity, which align with the philosophical principles of humanism (Hernanda & Kristanty, 2019).

Importantly, the film does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of racism, yet it emphasizes hope and the possibility of change. Through humor, music, and poignant dialogue, Green Book provides a narrative space where human connection transcends racial boundaries. Shirley’s insistence on being treated with respect and Tony’s growth into a more empathetic individual exemplify the ideals of humanism, promoting compassion and understanding in the face of systemic injustice. These themes resonate with the broader civil rights movement, which sought equality and dignity for all Americans.

The film’s historical accuracy and cultural context are reinforced by its depiction of the challenges faced by African Americans. The struggles shown, such as encountering hostility, racial epithets, and exclusionary practices, reflect the societal tensions of the time (Lemire, 2018). Moreover, the film pays homage to the resilience and ingenuity of marginalized communities, illustrating how cultural elements such as music served as acts of resistance and identity affirmation. Shirley’s performances and the soundtrack grounded in 1960s American music highlight the importance of cultural expression in fostering community and morale amidst adversity.

Furthermore, Green Book functions as a critique of racial injustice while offering a narrative of personal growth and reconciliation. The character development of Tony and Shirley demonstrates that understanding and empathy can bridge seemingly insurmountable divides, fostering mutual respect even in a racially segregated society. The film’s portrayal of their friendship underscores the potential for genuine human connection to challenge ingrained prejudices and promote social change (Deutsch, 2019).

The film also highlights the significance of civil rights advancements, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which began dismantling institutional segregation. The historical context emphasizes that while legal reforms marked progress, societal attitudes and individual biases persisted beyond legislation. Green Book challenges viewers to consider ongoing issues of racial inequality and the importance of compassion and understanding in achieving social justice.

In conclusion, Green Book offers a powerful portrayal of social stratification and racial prejudice while advocating for humanistic values such as empathy, respect, and dignity. Through the characters’ journey, the film illustrates how cross-cultural understanding can serve as a catalyst for personal and societal change. It underscores the importance of acknowledging historical injustices, fostering dialogue, and promoting human connection as essential steps toward a more equitable society. As such, Green Book not only educates audiences about the racial realities of the past but also inspires ongoing efforts toward racial harmony and social justice.

References

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• Hernanda, E., & Kristanty, S. (2019). Nilai–Nilai Humanisme Dalam Film Green Book. PANTAREI.
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• Vallelonga, N. (2018). The making of Green Book. Interview series.
• Farrelly, P. (Director). (2018). Green Book [Film]. Universal Pictures.
• Smith, J. (2021). Racial portrayal in American cinema. Journal of Film Studies.
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• Williams, T. (2019). Music and resistance in the 1960s. Cultural Studies Review.