John Boyega talks ‘Star Wars The Force Awakens’ critics, hints at racism
The first Star Wars: The Force Awakens trailer surprised elements of fandom who were wondering why John Boyega’s Stormtrooper character, Finn, was black. Boyega initially responded to the racist questioning and disapproval with a succinct “Get used to it,” on Instagram.
Now in a recent interview with V Magazine, the actor elaborated, saying, “[The negativity] was unnecessary … I’m in the movie, what are you going to do about it? You either enjoy it or you don’t. I’m not saying get used to the future, but what is already happening. People of color and women are increasingly being shown on-screen. For things to be whitewashed just doesn’t make sense.”
The Attack the Block actor pointed out that his past films especially have “had a secret commentary on stereotypical mentalities.”
“It’s about getting people to drop a prejudiced state of mind and realize, ‘Oh shit we’re just watching normal people.'”
Boyega also used the interview tease his character’s unique narrative: “We’ve seen him in the Stormtrooper outfit and his own clothes. Why is that?”
“I’m being mentored by Robert Downey Jr. at the moment,” he noted. “He’s helped me prepare for how my life is going to change and that has been inspiring. I’m talking to someone who understands the power of choices, both positive and negative.”
Star Wars: The Force Awakens comes out December 18 so fans will get their “answers” then.
The highly anticipated new Star Wars film see the return of Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Peter Mayhew, Anthony Daniels and Kenny Baker, all set to reprise their roles from the first trilogy.
Daisy Ridley and John Boyega star with Adam Driver, Oscar Isaac, Domhnall Gleeson, Gwendoline Christie, Max von Sydow, Lupita Nyong’o and Andy Serkis.