Young People Are Recreating Iconic Movie Posters to Push for Diversity in Hollywood

The 91st Academy Awards are this Sunday, February 24 and this year’s nominees are making history. Black Panther is the first superhero movie to be nominated for Best Picture, iconic filmmaker Spike Lee earned his first Best Director nomination, for BlacKkKlansman, and Yalitza Aparicio (Roma) is the first Latinx woman to be nominated for Best Actress in 14 years.

Though this year’s nominations offer some improvement, the Academy still has a long way to go as far as diversity, both on the big screena and behind the camera. Fans have expressed disappointment that Crazy Rich Asians was snubbed completely, and called out the lack of Black nominees in major acting categories and the absence of women up for Best Director. That's why, inspired by projects like #StarringJonCho, DoSomething activated young people to recreate popular movie posters as a statement of the kind of representation they want to see onscreen. Here are some of our favorites.

Zulay, 18

“Seeing lesbian couples, bisexual individuals, transgender icons, smart POC, and so on and so forth, on the big screen provides the opportunity for the masses to grow attached to and empathize with our struggles. It also provides characters I can see myself in and follow and root for.”

Tranel, 21

“My friend, Amma Mensah (pictured in the poster), is a strong advocate for racial equality. She has inspired me to learn more about my history and become a voice for my community. This poster and storyline represent her well because she is constantly seeking to create awareness despite the lack of support she receives from others.”

Timothy, 19

“Being a part of the LGBTQ+ community I don't really see very many love stories that involve same-sex couples. Using the story of the notebook it can play into the story and how their love for each other can still be true.”

LyLena, 17

Elizabeth, 19

Ahmed, 23

Deymaris, 18

Fariah, 17

Ryan, 19