JEFFERY'S JOURNAL: The Genius of Robert Rodriguez

I recently introduced my seven-year-old son to the Spy Kids movies.  All four films were written, directed and produced by Robert Rodriguez, a Hispanic male.  Each time I insert one of these movies into my DVD player, I am amazed at what they do to me.  They return me to a time when I used feature films and television shows to imagine a better life for myself and my family.

But as I studied the cast of characters that Rodriguez assembled for his films, I applauded the fact that most, if not all, of the roles were occupied by Hispanic/Latino actors.  This feat is almost unheard of in Hollywood because the perceived notion is films featuring ethic characters in lead roles are not marketable to the larger community.  But all four films were the talk of the town in households all across America.  If you ask me, that's pretty impressive.

But I am also amazed at how slowly African-American filmmakers have responded to the need for more family films featuring African-American characters in lead roles.  As the parent of a seven-year-old boy, I would love to step into the the family section at Blockbuster to see at least five live action or animated features that are unarguably African American.  Instead, I am left wanting because African-American filmmakers reportedly do not see the urgency to produce such films.

Yes, I loved Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston in "The Preacher's Wife".  I also admire the works of Tyler Perry and other black filmmakers.  But wouldn't it be great to see more African-American versions of "Stand By Me", one of my all-time favorite coming of age films?  Such movies would promote psychological healing in the African-American community, give African-American youths the impetus they need to develop their own platforms for success.

Integrating America's public educational system was nothing more than a first step.  We must now integrate creative expression, ensuring that films, books and internet content depict the trials, tribulations and victories of all people.  I, for one, know that we African Americans are more than thugs and prostitutes.  We are also concerned parents and business professionals who want better lives for our children.

I don't know what the future holds as I strive to mesh my story ideas with the three-act screenplay structure.  What I do know is I hope to one day work with directors and producers (either red, yellow, black, brown or white) who understand the importance of giving African-American youngsters heroes they can identify with.   These children and youths can only worship Superman and Spider-Man for so long.  Why can't someone who looks like them swoop in to save the day?

If you feel me, holla' back.