Infographic: Option 2 (Asian Representation)


The roots of Asian representation in Hollywood reach back over a century to Japanese actor Sessue Hayakawa, who found international acclaim in 1915’s The Cheat. Since the Silent Era, Asians have had to fight for representation in film and television, even enduring the common Hollywood practice of “yellowface”—in which typically white actors are made up to appear "Oriental." As the US Asian population has grown, so too have calls for more opportunities on both sides of the camera. In fact, a 2021 survey by the Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment found that not only were Asians rarely represented in mainstream American entertainment, but when they were visible, roles often relied on pervasive stereotypes, such as the “martial artist” or the “model minority.” While certain films and TV shows, such as Crazy Rich Asians and Fresh Off the Boat, have raised the profile of Asians, their numbers remains troublingly low. 

For this assignment, you will create an infographic highlighting the evolution of Asian representation in American film and television. Your infographic should highlight major milestones in Asian depictions, either positive or negative. 

Requirements:

  • Highlight at least six to eight milestones in Asian film and television representation
  • Incorporate your thesis in the infographic's subheading
  • Include a separate works cited in MLA Style—all milestones must have a corresponding source in your works cited

Note: Infographics are most easily utilized in PowerPoint, but a comparable program, such as Canva or Google Slides, is also acceptable. Additionally, if you are experienced in it, you may also utilize Photoshop or Illustrator. You may also include GIFs or cinemagraphs, if desired. 

Supplemental Information:

Due: 

Draft 1 - Wed 10.19 (will not be submitted, but may be shared in class) 

Final Draft - Wed 10.26 - Mon 10.31