MovieChat Forums > Tower Heist (2011) Discussion > Why does the black dude have to play the...

Why does the black dude have to play the convict?


Black maid and I think michael pena is even a servant of some sort...



wtf?


And don't tell me I'm over sensitive or playing the race card...



Look up minstrel shows and steppin fetched before you critize me...

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Why did Eddie Murphy, one of the producers of the film, have to play the role of the petty criminal? Maybe ask him.

They were all petty building staff, not just the hispanic and the black woman. Guess you didn't notice all the white building staff.

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The whole hotel staff was kind of servile. But they were also decent, relatable, blue-collar people. I'm not sure why OP thinks that makes them "bad". In fact, Murphy wanted them to cast them as black. Probably to isolate his character's obnoxious, petty criminality from black identity.

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i feel like that's why he reiterated so many times that he's a "thief"

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You’re telling us there are no black dude convicts, black maids, and Hispanic servants in real life? 🤔

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