Abstract: Yellowface and whitewashing have a long history in United States (U.S.) media, which
are then perpetuated globally through cultural imperialism/media imperialism (CI/MI).
Despite improvements to representation in live action films, culturally inauthentic
casting appears slower to change in the realm of animation. This research sought to
explore how audiences perceive animated Asian and Pacific Islander (API) characters
who are dubbed with voices from non-API actors in select films produced by Studio
Ghibli. To answer this research question, 69 participants completed a qualitative
survey in which they provided their thoughts on the relationship between voice actors,
animated characters, and accurate racial/ethnic representation. Findings demonstrate
three main responses when asked about the casting of authentic voice actors for animated
characters: problematic (e.g., the voice actor should match the race/ethnicity of
the character), unproblematic (e.g., the voice actor does not need to match the race/ethnicity
of the animated character and should be cast based on 鈥渢alent鈥), and complicated (e.g.,
factors like prioritizing live action representation and the consideration of business
play a role in perceptions of voice actors). From these findings, I argue people鈥檚
perceptions of the importance of cultural authenticity in animation can be attributed
to one of three factors: (1) the prevalence of visuals in the film medium, (2) the
perceived inferiority of animated media compared to live action media, or (3) the
effectiveness of CI/MI.
Bio: Matt Jardin is an Emmy庐-nominated filmmaker and writer based in Anchorage, 蜜桃影像.
Born in Juneau, 蜜桃影像, to Filipino immigrant parents, he developed a passion for
media and storytelling at a young age. As Matt grew older, that passion expanded into
sharing more diverse perspectives. He received his undergraduate degree in marketing
and management from the University of 蜜桃影像 Anchorage in 2010 before jumping right
into the marketing and communication career field. As a University of 蜜桃影像 Fairbanks
professional communication graduate student, Matt seeks to broadly examine the intersection
of culture and communication. Specifically, he is interested in building on his professional,
artistic, and cultural experience to study the dynamic between mass communication,
racial identity, and social justice. When not busy with school, work, or art, Matt
is spending time with his wife, son, and dog, or organizing local filmmaking events
in the community.