The Racial Insult and Its Impact in the Film 'The Falcon and the Winter Soldier'
When discussing the film The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, many viewers have been perplexed by Brock Rumlow's character calling Sam Wilson, played by actor Anthony Mackie, "Kid." This article aims to explore the historical context behind this controversial term and its implications in both the film and broader societal contexts.
The Context of Sam Wilson's Character
Sam Wilson, also known as Falcon, was originally played by Frank Grillo before he was recast with Anthony Mackie. Frank Grillo, a 64-year-old actor, is indeed 14 years older than Anthony Mackie, who is 45. In the early years of the film's conception, Rumlow referred to Grillo as "Kid," positioning him as a senior figure in comparison. This contradicts the younger age difference in the film, where Mackie's character is portrayed as much older than Grillo's.
The Nature of the Insult
The reason Rumlow calls Sam Wilson “Kid” is an insult. However, the complexity of the term lies in its cultural and historical connotations. Rumlow, a character who has been involved in various black operations and is a dangerous operative, uses this term more as a psychological manipulation rather than a simple age comparison. This form of behavior is characteristic of a schoolyard bully aiming to establish dominance through intimidation and derision.
The Psychological Impact of the Insult
Sam Wilson, played by Anthony Mackie, is a former Air Force Pararescueman, with extensive experience and training. His combat skills are well-known within his military circles and even to Natasha Romanoff. Rumlow’s callous use of the term “Kid” underestimates the intelligence and capabilities of the character, portraying Sam as lesser and more vulnerable. However, this tactic is also a reflection of Rumlow's own limitations as a character.
The Historical Context and Cultural Significance
Historically, many cultures including the United States, have a troubled past with racial discrimination. The term "Kid" can be seen as a reflection of these deeper issues. For an 80s-born individual like myself, from a culturally different background in New Zealand, the term carried no such weight. But as an adult, I have come to understand the profound implications of such language. This boils down to a reflection on past slavery, where dark-skinned individuals were seen as property rather than human beings.
As a New Zealander who has seen firsthand the discrimination faced by Pacific Islander communities, I can only imagine the in-ground depths of the racism and dehumanizing culture in a society that viewed dark-skinned people as property only a century ago. I can’t help but feel that Rumlow’s call was more than an insult; it was a way to strip Sam Wilson of his identity and diminish him.
The Need for Cultural Sensitivity
The character of Rumlow serves as a stark reminder of the insidious nature of racism and the need for cultural sensitivity. Just as Captain America (played by Chris Evans) would have faced Rumlow, we must collectively stand against such inappropriate and harmful language. It is crucial to recognize and address the cultural and historical context behind such terms, ensuring a more inclusive and respectful society.
In conclusion, while the term "Kid" in the context of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier is an interesting point of discussion, it takes context and historical significance into account. It is an example of a character using language that reflects deeper societal issues, making it a subject worthy of examination and debate.