Oriental (?)

[D_Davis]

I've been a student and admirer of Asian and Pan-Asian cinema since the early 1990s. I guess you could say I know a thing or two, or at least I've seen a film or two.

I have to say that the name for this sub-forum is a little outdated, to say the least.

The term "Orient" was mostly used by Westerners to refer to the exotic locations in the East. It carries with it some meanings that many people, both in the East and the West, object to now.

It is ethnocentric at best, and insulting at worst.

It is kind of like referring to martial arts cinema as "Chop Sockey" films, or calling anime "Japanimation," but a little worse I think.

I don't mean to stir the pot or rock the boat or anything, but someone may want to rename it to something less objectionable.

/2 cents

[angrybuddhist]

I agree. I've always been told that using the word "Oriental" is like using the "N" word. "Asian Theatre" would probably be a better title for this thread.

[D_Davis]

It's probably just a US vs. UK thing.

The word doesn't have the same negative qualities in the UK as it does in the US, and since this is largely a UK site, it makes sense.

[Connavar]

It doesnt matter UK or US site it is too old for modern forums like this.

Asian Cinema is much better.


To me Oriental is some bad word left after the colonization days....