The upcoming live-action remake of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ has already stirred significant buzz, and not all of it has been positive. Nico Parker, the actress cast as Astrid, has found herself at the center of online discussions, particularly regarding her race. As a Black woman taking on a role initially depicted with blonde hair and blue eyes in the animated films, Parker has faced a wave of criticism. However, she’s not letting the negativity get her down. With grace and confidence, Parker is addressing the trolls and focusing on the positive aspects of her role and the film itself.
This isn’t just another casting controversy; it’s a reflection of the broader conversations happening in Hollywood about representation and inclusivity. Parker’s response highlights the importance of diverse casting and the need to move beyond traditional, often homogenous, portrayals. By addressing the criticism head-on, she sets a powerful example for other actors and fans alike. This article delves into Parker’s statements, the context of the casting, and the larger implications for the film industry.
Nico Parker Responds to Criticism Over ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Casting
In a recent interview with The Times, Nico Parker addressed the online criticism surrounding her casting as Astrid in the live-action remake of ‘How to Train Your Dragon.’ Parker acknowledged the comments about her not having blonde hair and blue eyes, as the character was initially depicted in the animated films. However, she made it clear that she doesn’t place much value on the opinions of those who oppose inclusivity and change.
“There’s some people that really love the animated movies and really want to see an exact play-by-play of that film, and I hope that you can watch [the new version] and find something that you love about it, regardless,” Parker said. “But for the people that just hate inclusivity, hate change — when it comes to that side of things, I just don’t care.”
Parker’s response reflects a growing sentiment among actors and creators who are pushing for more diverse representation in Hollywood. She understands that some fans may have strong attachments to the original material, but she also recognizes the importance of embracing change and inclusivity. By dismissing the opinions of those who are simply resistant to these values, Parker sends a powerful message about the need to prioritize representation and move beyond outdated stereotypes.
Parker on Valuing Opinions and Staying Grounded
The actress further elaborated on her approach to dealing with criticism, emphasizing that she only values the opinions of people she respects and admires. This helps her stay grounded and focused on her work, rather than getting bogged down by negativity.
“If I wouldn’t value your opinion on most things in life, I can’t value your opinion on my hair. If I did, I would go mad.”
This statement underscores Parker’s self-assuredness and her ability to prioritize her mental and emotional well-being. By setting clear boundaries and only taking feedback from trusted sources, she protects herself from the potential harm of online hate and maintains her focus on delivering a compelling performance.
Parker’s Perspective on Hollywood Representation and Change
Nico Parker also shared her thoughts on the progress Hollywood has made in terms of onscreen representation, particularly for mixed-race and Black individuals. She noted that when she was younger, there were fewer role models who looked like her, but that the landscape is changing for the better.
“When I was younger, the amount of mixed race or Black icons, people that I would look to on screen to be like, ‘Oh, this feels like me,’ felt really minimal in comparison to what it could be for young people now, and I think that’s really special,” the actress said.
Parker acknowledges that there is still work to be done, especially for women in terms of new parts, original material, and female-led stories. However, she remains optimistic about the future and hopes to contribute to positive change in the industry.
The Director’s Vision for Astrid in the Remake
Writer-director of the live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon,’ has shared insights into the character of Astrid and how Nico Parker’s casting aligns with his vision. DeBlois mentioned that Astrid was “a little underserved” in the original movie and that the remake aims to give her more depth and complexity.
“Nico Parker plays Astrid, [and] that feeds into this idea that she has come from a different culture, that she is a descendant of one of those prized dragon-fighting warriors that were collected by Vikings in different places,” the filmmaker said. “She hopes to be chief of this tribe one day. She’s got great ambition, and what’s nice about it is that it creates a conflict between she and Hiccup.”
By reimagining Astrid as a character with a different cultural background and greater ambitions, DeBlois is creating a more nuanced and compelling role for Parker to inhabit. This also adds an interesting dynamic to the relationship between Astrid and Hiccup, as they navigate their individual goals and aspirations.
Conclusion: Embracing Inclusivity and Moving Forward
Nico Parker’s response to the criticism surrounding her casting as Astrid in the ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ remake is a testament to her strength, confidence, and commitment to inclusivity. By dismissing the opinions of those who oppose diversity and change, she sets a powerful example for others in the industry and beyond. Her focus on the positive aspects of her role and the film itself underscores the importance of representation and the need to move beyond outdated stereotypes.
As Hollywood continues to evolve and embrace more diverse casting choices, it is essential to support actors like Nico Parker who are paving the way for a more inclusive and representative future. The ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ remake has the potential to be a groundbreaking film that not only entertains audiences but also challenges them to rethink traditional portrayals and embrace the beauty of diversity.
Leave a Reply