I don't know if today's audiences are aware of just how big of an impact Carrie Fisher's Princess Leia made in 1977.
Yes, she was the beautiful princess in white waiting to be rescued by the men and then — what? She kicks you-know-what, saves the men, has a tongue sharp enough to cut diamond, and turns out to be a leader of the Rebel Alliance. Back in the day, people talked about her character as being revolutionary; she (and Star Wars creator George Lucas) subverted the roles and gender attitudes of the time.
Fisher will always be known for her Star Wars role, but she also made a name for herself as a writer, becoming a best-selling author and script doctor in Hollywood. She became a hero for an entirely different reason when she talked openly about her struggles with bipolar disorder and addiction.
Princess Leia was revolutionary. And the actress who portrayed her was funny, sharp, and pointed.
And I'm scared to think what else can happen in the next four days of this crummy year.
No comments:
Post a Comment