‘It’s about valuing their audience’: why Ghostbusters called in a Muslim ‘cultural consultant’
‘It’s about valuing their audience’: why Ghostbusters called in a Muslim ‘cultural consultant’
Sajid Varda, a cultural consultant, recently worked on "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" to ensure accurate portrayal of a Pakistani-American character, Nadeem. Varda emphasized the importance of authenticity in representing cultural backgrounds in the film. His role involved advising on cultural and faith-based aspects without imposing censorship, aiming to respect and value the audience.
Hollywood is increasingly engaging cultural consultants to address diversity and avoid cultural insensitivity. Varda's involvement in "Ghostbusters" reflects a broader trend where productions like Disney/Pixar's "Coco" and "Soul" have utilized cultural expertise to enhance storytelling and connect authentically with diverse audiences. This approach not only respects cultural nuances but also taps into a global market seeking relatable content.