David E. Kelley and Aaron Sorkin: Political Theatre or Authentic Voices?

David E. Kelley and Aaron Sorkin are two of the most prominent figures in the world of television and streaming media. As producers, writers, and creators of hit shows, their work often sits at the crux of innovation and controversy. One of the central debates surrounding their work is whether it relies heavily on political theatre and the use of tokenistic representation of black and brown characters. This article delves into whether these renowned creators are true champions of diversity or if they are merely playing to a political agenda, all while highlighting the importance of authentic voices in the entertainment industry.

Introduction to David E. Kelley and Aaron Sorkin

David E. Kelley is a prolific television and film writer and producer, known for his work on shows like Ally McBeal, Prison Break, and Joshua Tree. He has also produced and written for notable films such as Spartacus. On the other hand, Aaron Sorkin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, screenwriter, and producer, is renowned for his irreverent and dialogue-centered style. His legacy includes works like The West Wing, The Social Network, and The Trial of the Chicago 7.

Political Theatre in Television and Streaming Media

The term "political theatre" is often used to describe content that prioritizes political correctness over artistic merit. This can manifest in the form of overtly political scripts, characters that serve as mere placeholders for political messages, and a focus on social issues over plot and character development.

David E. Kelley has been accused of using political theatre in his shows. In Ally McBeal, for example, some argue that the show's portrayal of women in the legal profession is more of a political statement than an authentic representation of the legal profession. Similarly, the integration of political issues in Prison Break is seen by some as a deliberate attempt to appeal to a certain political audience.

Aaron Sorkin's works often delve into the political arena, but many feel that his focus on political theatre can often detract from the quality of his writing. In The West Wing, for example, political correctness is prevalent, and the storyline is often crafted to advance a particular narrative rather than to tell a compelling story.

Token Representation in Television

Token representation refers to the inclusion of a small number of characters from underrepresented groups, often to create the appearance of diversity without substantial depth or authenticity. This practice can be seen as inauthentic and even harmful if it leads to the perpetuation of stereotypes or if the characters are used solely to advance a political agenda.

In their works, both Kelley and Sorkin have been criticized for their use of token black and brown characters. In Ally McBeal, for example, some argue that the presence of black legal assistants and secretaries is merely to make the show appear more diverse, without providing them with substantial roles. Similarly, The West Wing has faced criticism for its portrayal of black and Hispanic characters, with many feeling that these characters are not well-developed or given the same opportunities as their white counterparts.

For David E. Kelley, the criticism extends to the way these characters are used. Characters like Kuzak in Prison Break have been lambasted for being one-dimensional and serving a narrative that often focuses on the struggle of minority groups without providing a rich, nuanced exploration of their lives.

Aaron Sorkin has also faced similar criticism. His plays and films have been accused of including token characters who serve primarily to add diversity without meaningful representation. For instance, characters like Silas in The Social Network are seen as placeholders for a more nuanced exploration of the role of underrepresented groups in Silicon Valley.

Debunking or Supporting the Claims

Supporters of both Kelley and Sorkin argue that while their works may lean towards political theatre and token representation, these elements are often used to shed light on important social issues. Kelley has maintained that many of the political and social issues highlighted in his shows are crucial to the fabric of society and require airing.

Aaron Sorkin has also defended his work, stating that he aims to create authentic and nuanced characters that serve as a reflection of the world around us. He argues that while the portrayal of these characters may be simplified for entertainment purposes, it is a necessary step to push the needle on social issues.

However, detractors point out that these attempts at political correctness often miss the mark. They suggest that political theatre and token representation can be counterproductive, as they can create a superficial understanding of complex issues and underrepresented communities.

Preserving Authenticity in the Entertainment Industry

Despite the ongoing debate, it is essential for creators like David E. Kelley and Aaron Sorkin to strive for authenticity in their portrayal of characters and social issues. This is particularly important in the current climate of increasing awareness and sensitivity towards representation in media.

One way to achieve this is by involving members of underrepresented communities in the writing and production process. This can result in more diverse and authentic storytelling. For instance, cast and crew members from these communities can bring invaluable perspectives and experiences that add depth and authenticity to the stories being told.

Another strategy is to focus on creating fully fleshed-out characters, rather than relying on stereotypes or token representation. Providing these characters with complex backstories, motivations, and personal arcs can help to create a more authentic and relatable narrative.

Furthermore, creators must be willing to learn and evolve. Just as Kelley and Sorkin have demonstrated with their evolving styles, being open to feedback and criticism is crucial. This allows for continuous improvement and the creation of more nuanced and authentic content.

Conclusion

The debate over whether David E. Kelley and Aaron Sorkin heavily rely on political theatre and token black and brown spokespeople in their work is complex and multifaceted. While it is true that their works have been criticized for these aspects, it is also important to acknowledge their contributions to the industry and their efforts to address important social issues.

Ultimately, the key to overcoming these criticisms is to prioritize authentic and nuanced storytelling. By involving diverse voices in the creation process, focusing on fully developed characters, and being open to evolving and learning, Kelley and Sorkin, and other creators in the entertainment industry, can truly make a difference in representing and enriching our world through their work.