Last week, the trailer for Academy Award winning actress Brie Larson’s new movie, “Basmati Blues”, was released, prompting a collective groan from netizens everywhere.
The movie follows Larson’s character, a bright, bubbly scientist who travels to India to sell the masses on her company’s genetically modified rice. The trailer features a glimpse of several tropes, including Larson not being able to handle spicy food and the locals taking advantage of her naiveté.
At one point, she assuredly asserts her clinical Western knowledge over that of the local rice farmers, saying that if they have “any questions about rice, just let me know”.
Ultimately, Larson’s character must save the seemingly helpless Indian people from her big bad corporation, as the rice turns out to be harmful to those who would eat it.
Netizens were quick to point out the problematic White saviorism Larson’s role represented.
What do you think? Is “Basmati Blues” out of line or should people put away their torches and pitchforks? Let us know in the comments!
