MovieChat Forums > Tour of Duty (1987) Discussion > Racism (S1 E6)

Racism (S1 E6)

posted 9 years ago by film_rat
2 replies | jump to latest

There is so much to say about this episode. The most important thing imho is that it doesn't show only white racism, but black racism too. Tucker, in his mind, is as racist as Innes, in a way, though as a black man he's in the less comfortable situation. Percell and Ruiz are the heroes of this episode. Percell says to Taylor that he has more in common with Innes than he would like to, and Ruiz rejects Innes' racist companion (Allen?) saying "When you're through with the blacks you will have a got at the hispanos, and after that, the jewish LT, and after that the surfers." (something around these lines, I'm quoting from the dubbed version) I would like to know how al this sounds for younger people today. The series is made in the 80ies and reflects the reality of the 60ies. And now? For now 20 years old all this might sound as something from a medieval age.
Any thoughts?

English is not my first language. Any corrections are welcome.

[–] Nomad-1968 9 years ago

Racism goes both ways and reflects the times. There are plenty of shows and films from previous decades that can make a modern audience flinch. Plenty of TV sitcoms that wouldn't get aired today that have very questionable humour and I am by no means PC.

[–] amaizinblue 9 years ago

Bigotry goes both ways. Racism requires power and structure to happen. In this country, that has always been with white americans. It irritates me that people keep this myth going about reverse racism. I personally have people in my family that are vietnam vets, and the racism they faced over there and when they came home is extremely tough for them to talk about.Even today.