a16z Podcast: Mastering the Game (with David Oyelowo)
Sep 30, 2016
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David Oyelowo, celebrated for his portrayal of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in "Selma," speaks about his role in "Queen of Katwe" as Robert Katende. He highlights the significance of authentic African narratives and the need for diverse representation in cinema. The conversation delves into the juxtaposition of joy and poverty in Uganda, the importance of African-American identity in storytelling, and the challenges faced by Black actors in Hollywood. Oyelowo advocates for storytelling that fosters inclusivity and authenticity in film.
David Oyelowo emphasizes the need for authentic representation in storytelling, especially in the portrayal of African narratives.
The film 'Queen of Katwe' illustrates that joy and resilience exist even in poverty, challenging stereotypes about wealth and happiness.
Deep dives
Representation in Cinema
The film 'Queen of Katwe' emphasizes the importance of authentic representation in storytelling, particularly regarding narratives from Africa. David Oyelowo highlights the tendency of mainstream cinema to depict Africa through a 'white savior' lens, often neglecting the agency and complexity of African people. By featuring Ugandan director Mira Nair and a Ugandan heritage executive at Disney, the film showcases a more genuine portrayal of African experiences. Oyelowo’s role as Robert Katende serves as a pivotal shift in how African stories are told, moving away from traditional narratives dominated by Western perspectives.
Joy in Adversity
While 'Queen of Katwe' acknowledges the realities of poverty, it also portrays the joy and resilience present in the lives of its characters. Oyelowo recalls a powerful moment from his time in Uganda, where he witnessed individuals with limited resources exhibit profound joy, challenging the narrative that equates wealth with happiness. This message resonates through the film, demonstrating that life in less privileged circumstances can be filled with love, ingenuity, and hope. The filmmakers aim to depict a balanced view of life in Katwe, highlighting both struggles and the rich, vibrant culture of its people.
Impactful Choices in Filmmaking
Oyelowo discusses the significance of choice in his acting career and the importance of meaningful projects like 'Queen of Katwe.' Despite the film's modest budget, he was drawn to its potential cultural impact and the opportunity to explore complex themes around identity and representation. He views cinema as a powerful tool for social change, aiming to challenge the marginalized narratives of people of color and amplify female voices. The film's success can serve as a model for future projects that prioritize diverse stories and narratives, driving change in Hollywood's filmmaking landscape.
This special episode of the a16z Podcast is based on a Q&A from an early screening we hosted of Disney's Queen of Katwe, now in theaters. The movie -- directed by Mira Nair and based on a book by Tim Crothers -- depicts the true story of Ugandan chess prodigy Phiona Mutesi.
The conversation, hosted by Ben Horowitz, features actor David Oyelowo who (among other roles, previously played Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in "Selma") and plays Robert Katende, the engineer-turned-mentor who taught community sports and chess to kids in the slums of Kampala, Uganda.
photo credits: Prentiss Earl lll
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