(Image Source: Sony Pictures)
British actor Sacha Baron Cohen's return in "Ali G: Who Iz I?", the sequel to "Ali G Indahouse", released its trailer a few days ago and is set for a late October release. However, promotional efforts have quickly ignited a boycott movement.
Media watchdog NewsCord recently launched a campaign urging cinemas worldwide to ban "Ali G: Who Iz I?", arguing that the film series reinforces harmful racial stereotypes. They contend that the humor derived from Baron Cohen's rapper character, Ali G, comes from an exaggerated imitation of Black British culture's slang, attire, and mannerisms, portraying him as extremely ignorant and vulgar. While acknowledging this as a core aspect of the character, critics believe it perpetuates negative stereotypes of Black individuals.
(Image Source: Universal Pictures)
UK cinema chain Picturehouse Cinemas recently announced in a statement that it would not screen "Ali G: Who Iz I?" at any of its venues. The statement asserted that the film uses satire as an excuse to reinforce racial stereotypes. It severely criticized the movie for "resurrecting a racist caricature," implying the character is an outdated creation that should not be revived for a sequel.
"Ali G: Who Iz I?" is currently still slated for a North American premiere on October 23rd. Whether the boycott will expand further remains to be seen.