Movie accentuates stereotypes about S'pore
I write with regard to the movie Crazy Rich Asians, based on the book of the same name. Why is there so much hype about this movie set in Singapore?
The emphasis is clearly on the word "rich". Surely we are much more than just that.
Is it all that matters, at the heart of our society? And does it help create the right values, if that is what we are obsessed with?
The emphasis on wealth not only creates a sense of entitlement, it reinforces the divide that exists in our community.
This divide, which appears to be growing wider, is something that needs to be dealt with and eradicated over time. Instead, a movie such as Crazy Rich Asians perpetuates the theme of being extremely wealthy and encourages it with all its flash.
Is the desire of always wanting more what we should allow to fester within each individual?
In the real world, not all can be so rich, and there are many who barely get by.
So how does this film help the cause? It only stimulates envy and bad behaviour.
It has thrown in nosy and judgmental relatives, and even a disapproving mother who feels that her son's girlfriend is not good enough.
I think it is a shame that we put ourselves on the map with this movie that only accentuates all the stereotypes to be found within our nation.
MANORAJ RAJATHURAI
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