MovieChat Forums > Remember the Night (1940) Discussion > I love this movie, BUT...

I love this movie, BUT...

posted 9 years ago by frpax
6 replies | jump to latest

I'll add my voice to all the others that just adore this film. It is one of my all time favorites.

The only thing that really bothers me though is Rufus. The way he was stereotypically portrayed. Black man as a servant/domestic. The "Yazza" "Nawzza" routine.

I realize that this was very common in early films and that African Americans were increasingly not pleased with the stereotype. But still, it really bothers me. Not as bad as someone using the "N" word, but a close second.

Ok. Rant over.

[–] joes119-1 8 years ago

Sturges does racial insults. He terrorized a bunch of dining car porters with a live ammo shoot 'em up in Palm Beach Story. For 'laughs'.

[–] p25735-261-505738 8 years ago

I agree, and, like you, I realize early movies aren't politically correct, but Rufus was over the top. Fortunately, that's only at the beginning of the movie. I had almost forgotten it until you brought it up.

[–] liscarkat (19418) 6 years ago

I'm so glad there are movies that pre-date political correctness. Rufus is a hilarious character, perfectly portrayed by Fred Toones. I have no doubt he enjoyed creating this role, and cashing the paycheck he got for it.

[–] trevorh321 (5495) 3 years ago

Hey, here is an idea. Maybe that's how some black people were back at that time. Ya think? Maybe? Possibly? Not all of them can be as distinguished as Will Smith.

[–] ungakhan (49) 2 years ago

Absolutely right. The Rufus character is the only stain in this otherwise wonderful film. Yeah it's typical of Hollywood at the time (which seems to be worse in the 40s than the 30s) but doesn't stop it being sad and cringeworthy.

[–] TheArgentinian (7251) 2 years ago

Typical problematic portrayal of AA.