Elizabeth T. Tawose
SUNFLOWER
SUNFLOWER is a short film, written, directed, and produced by Elizabeth Tawose.
SYNOPSIS
In a world where fair and light skinned women are seen as the standard of beauty, high school student Amari Stevens struggles to see the beauty in her dark brown skin color. When Amari is rejected by her crush Cameron Jones, for her “lighter” friend Kiara Williams, she is pushed to take matters into her own hands. Amari turns to skin bleach cream to solve her problems and she soon faces the consequences of trying to change her outer appearance.
THE IMPACT & IMPORTANCE
Not only is the discussion of self confidence within the female black community imperative, but the recognition of colorism inside and outside of the community as well.
Colorism is a phenomenon that has long affected the psyche and subconscious of the black community. Whether it is a historical preset of slavery, where integration was established byway of force, slave master upon slave, allowing slaves that appeared more Eurocentric to be treated better; or, a standard set and perpetuated by the black community.
While addressing the existing notions of colorism, Sunflower showcases the beauty and needed appreciation for women with deeper melanin. A necessary vision for today's society and hereafter.
