Sacha Baron Cohen’s upcoming film is courting controversy ahead of its release. The actor’s onscreen character, Ali G, has been criticized for his appearance and controversial humour. Cohen responded in signature Ali G. style, mocking the campaign to boycott the film.
Sacha Baron Cohen pokes fun at the critics calling for an “Ali G” boycott
Cohen is letting the fans have it after a section objected to the screening of his upcoming film “Ali G: Who Iz I?”. He simply turned the rejection into another sharp joke. The Daily Beast has reported that the provocateur appeared elaborately dressed as a balding progressive activist in a satirical video addressing the controversy.
“I’m here on behalf of the Campaign for Ethical Comedy,” Baron Cohen said in character. “I’m sure you’ve heard of our five Cs: Consider, contextualize, consult community, and obtain consent before you laugh—That’s right, do the work before you smirk.”
He then turned his attention to the criticism surrounding the new movie, adding, “Regarding the Ali G trailer, it’s so sad that Sacha Baron Cohen cannot come up with a new character, so I urge you to boycott this Ali G movie.”
The parody comes following a call urging theaters to refuse to screen “Ali G: Who Iz I?”, which is scheduled for an October 23 release. The film’s trailer triggered a backlash, especially over the film’s use of fake dreadlocks and a Rastafarian-style hat. Critics argued that the character reinforces racial stereotypes.
The controversy also covers Ali G’s comment that shocked the audience. The on-screen character told the interviewer that he aspires to be an “absent” father.
Debates around Ali G have followed Cohen since the character first appeared in 1998. The character, though controversial, pushed Cohen into recognition through Da Ali G Show. Critics have been open, arguing that it is unclear whether the character alleviates prejudice or simply reproduces it.
Cohen debuted Ali G on the big screen in the 2002 movie “Ali G in da House”. However, he retired the character in 2007. Currently, Amazon MGM Studios is orchestrating its return.
