Every Single Word is a series of videos and blog run by writer and performer Dylan Marron. Every Single Word edits down popular films to only feature the words spoken by people of color. The series illustrates the lack of racial and ethnic minority representation in mainstream film by showing the mere minutes or even seconds characters of color are given in lengthy blockbusters and movie franchises. For example, in the entire Harry Potter series of 8 full-length films, 6 minutes of dialogue is given to characters of color, or 0.47% of screen time. The example linked above is from the 1993 film Mrs. Doubtfire. Marron features blockbuster hits, top-grossing films, and critically acclaimed masterpieces. Many videos in the series end after the title of the movie is displayed because there is no speaking time at all for characters of color.

discussion

What does this project say about racial and ethnic minority representation in film? Why is this representation important?

How do you feel your own identity is represented in hit films?

Why do you think there are so few speaking roles for characters of color?

What responsibilities, if any, do film makers have to represent people of color?