Actor Idris Elba was recently selected as the spotlight artist at Rutgers University. Elba was the guest speaker at the event called “Artist Spotlight.”
The event took place at the Paul Robeson Center of Rutgers University’s Newark campus. Moderated by Ms. Baraka Sele, the current Assistant Vice President of Programming of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), Elba spoke on a number of relevant issues. Two comments stuck out and are being analyzed by movie-goers.
On the Golden Globes and this year’s Oscars
“Halle Berry and I were the only two black actors nominated for this year’s Golden Globes (Idris for Luther and Halle for Frankie & Alice). The Oscars aren’t designed for us…let’s focus on making more films.”
On the Spike Lee vs. Tyler Perry Feud
“Can I be candid?” he asks before turning to face the audience directly. “I don’t like all of Tyler Perry’s films. Yes, I did work with Tyler for “Daddy’s Little Girls” because it portrayed a positive image of a black father. I am happy for Tyler’s success…we need Tyler Perry…by going to support his movies, we need to show economic strength. But we are also responsible for elevating film. I’m not with buffoonish characters like Madea or Big Momma.”
So what are your opinions? To Read What Spike said about Tyler and Tyler’s response CLICK HERE.
ALSO READ: NEW TYLER PERRY MOVIE: Watch Trailer for “Madea’s Big Happy Family”
