Marginalization

Definition

Marginalization refers to the social process by which certain groups or individuals are pushed to the edges of society, often experiencing exclusion from mainstream cultural, economic, and political participation. This process results in diminished access to resources, opportunities, and representation, creating disparities that can be reflected in various forms of media, including film.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Marginalization often affects groups based on race, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status, resulting in a lack of visibility and representation in film.
2. Films that focus on counter-hegemonic narratives actively challenge mainstream depictions by bringing marginalized voices to the forefront.
3. New Queer Cinema emerged as a response to the marginalization of LGBTQ+ communities in film, using innovative storytelling to highlight their experiences and struggles.
4. The experiences of women of color in film illustrate how intersectionality complicates marginalization, as they face unique challenges that are often overlooked in broader discussions about race and gender.
5. Subversive films that highlight marginalized communities can serve as powerful tools for social change, pushing viewers to reconsider their perceptions and biases.

Review Questions

• How does marginalization impact the representation of certain groups in film?
  • Marginalization significantly affects how certain groups are portrayed in film by limiting their visibility and often reducing them to stereotypes. Groups that are marginalized may struggle to find authentic representation, leading to narratives that do not accurately reflect their experiences. As a result, films that do include these groups may inadvertently reinforce existing stereotypes rather than challenge them.
• In what ways do counter-hegemonic films address issues of marginalization?
  • Counter-hegemonic films challenge dominant cultural narratives by presenting stories from marginalized perspectives. These films often highlight issues faced by underrepresented communities, bringing attention to social injustices and encouraging dialogue. By doing so, they create space for alternative narratives that oppose mainstream representations and empower marginalized voices.
• Evaluate how New Queer Cinema has reshaped understandings of marginalization within the LGBTQ+ community in relation to mainstream cinema.
  • New Queer Cinema has profoundly reshaped understandings of marginalization by offering raw and honest depictions of LGBTQ+ lives that diverge from the sanitized versions often found in mainstream cinema. By tackling issues such as identity, desire, and social rejection, these films challenge traditional norms while providing a platform for LGBTQ+ voices. This movement not only highlights the struggles faced by these communities but also celebrates their resilience, fostering greater awareness and acceptance within wider society.

Related terms

Hegemony: A concept that describes the dominance of one group over others, often maintained through cultural means and social institutions, influencing what is seen as normal or acceptable.

Representation: The depiction of individuals or groups in media and art, which can either challenge or reinforce societal stereotypes and power dynamics.

Subaltern: Groups or individuals who exist outside the dominant power structures and are often voiceless in societal narratives, including those portrayed in film and media.