As society evolves, so does the entertainment industry, reflecting changing norms and values. Films once considered acceptable now face scrutiny for their portrayal of race, gender, sexuality, and other sensitive topics. What was once deemed humorous may now be viewed as offensive or harmful. From jokes laden with racism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia to entire plotlines that fail to align with contemporary understanding and respect for marginalized groups, these films are increasingly seen as relics of a bygone era.
Despite their iconic status, it’s unlikely that such controversial films would be greenlit in today’s cultural landscape. Whether attributed to the rise of “cancel culture” or Hollywood’s adaptation to societal shifts, the industry now demands a greater sensitivity and accountability in storytelling. As audiences demand more inclusive and socially responsible content, the days of these once-accepted but now problematic films seem firmly relegated to the past.
‘Aladdin’ (1992)
Disney’s “Aladdin” enjoyed immense success in 1992, fueled by stunning animation, timeless music, and Robin Williams’ unforgettable performance. However, when the studio embarked on a live-action remake in 2019, they made significant alterations to the original. This decision stemmed from the recognition that the animated film perpetuated ethnic stereotypes of the Middle East and presented a problematic portrayal of Princess Jasmine as a damsel in distress.
In response to evolving social sensitivities and a growing demand for diversity and inclusivity, Disney opted to address these issues in the remake. The live-action version aimed to tone down stereotypes and present a more nuanced and empowered depiction of its characters, particularly Jasmine. By revising these elements, Disney sought to create a rendition of “Aladdin” that resonated with contemporary audiences while honoring the beloved essence of the original story.
“Stripes” (1981)
“Stripes” is often hailed as Bill Murray’s comedic tour de force, yet its premise would likely face insurmountable hurdles in today’s cinematic landscape. The film revolves around zany military antics, ultimately climaxing in a mock confrontation with the Soviet Union. However, given the seismic shift in global politics post-9/11 and heightened sensitivities around military matters, it’s improbable that a major studio would greenlight a similar military comedy today.
The film’s lighthearted portrayal of military life and its cavalier treatment of international tensions would likely be deemed inappropriate and potentially offensive in the current geopolitical climate. As audiences increasingly demand socially conscious and politically sensitive content, the comedic stylings of “Stripes” would likely struggle to find support from studio executives wary of controversy. While the film remains a beloved classic for many comedy aficionados, its premise stands as a relic of a bygone era, one unlikely to be replicated in today’s cinematic landscape.
‘Soul Man’ (1986)
The 1986 film “Soul Man” centered on a white high school student donning blackface to secure a scholarship intended for African American students. Given the deeply offensive and racially insensitive nature of its premise, it’s evident why such a movie would never be produced in today’s cultural climate. The practice of blackface is widely condemned as a form of racial caricature and perpetuation of harmful stereotypes.
In today’s society, where conversations about racial equity and representation are at the forefront, a film like “Soul Man” would face swift and unequivocal backlash. The storyline, which trivializes and exploits the experiences of Black individuals for comedic effect, would be rightfully deemed unacceptable and offensive. As society continues to evolve towards greater inclusivity and sensitivity, the existence of such a film would be inconceivable, reflecting a significant shift in societal values and awareness surrounding racial issues.
‘Animal House’ (1978)
“Animal House” is often revered as the ultimate college comedy, yet its humor hinges on sexual and racial stereotypes that would face intense scrutiny in today’s film industry. The film’s reliance on such stereotypes was even considered controversial during its release, prompting studio executives to seek approval from comedian Richard Pryor for a scene set in an African American club.
In today’s cultural climate, where conversations around representation and inclusivity are paramount, the comedic approach of “Animal House” would likely be deemed offensive and unacceptable. The film’s reliance on outdated tropes and insensitive humor would undoubtedly encounter significant pushback from audiences and critics alike. While it remains a nostalgic favorite for many, the film’s legacy is tempered by its reliance on humor that no longer aligns with contemporary standards of decency and respect.
‘Batman Forever’ (1995)
While “Batman Forever” doesn’t suffer from offensive content that would hinder its creation today, its campy and colorful portrayal of the Caped Crusader contrasts sharply with the current trend of self-serious comic book adaptations. In today’s climate dominated by dark and gritty superhero films that treat their source material with solemn reverence and prioritize interconnected cinematic universes, the light-hearted and almost comedic tone of “Batman Forever” would likely struggle to secure funding and studio backing.
The film’s departure from the brooding and introspective portrayal of Batman in contemporary iterations reflects a bygone era of superhero filmmaking. While it remains a nostalgic favorite for some, its whimsical approach to the iconic character feels out of step with the modern cinematic landscape, where audiences increasingly expect depth, complexity, and fidelity to comic book lore in their superhero fare.
‘Sixteen Candles’ (1984)
While John Hughes’ “Brat Pack” films are cherished by those who came of age in the 1980s, a remake of “Sixteen Candles” would necessitate significant alterations to align with contemporary values. The film’s portrayal of sexuality and gender roles would clash with modern sensibilities, requiring nuanced updates to resonate with today’s audience. However, the most pressing issue lies in the character of Long Duk Dong, the Japanese exchange student, portrayed by Gedde Watanabe.
Regrettably, the character perpetuates harmful stereotypes and is considered deeply offensive by modern standards. Any contemporary adaptation would need to undergo a complete transformation of Long Duk Dong, ensuring the portrayal of Asian characters is respectful and free from harmful tropes. While “Sixteen Candles” remains a nostalgic favorite for many, its cultural insensitivity serves as a stark reminder of the need for progress in representation and storytelling in today’s film industry.
‘Slap Shot’ (1977)
“Slap Shot” is frequently lauded as one of the most memorable sports movies, celebrated for its authentic depiction of hockey, iconic characters like the Hansen Brothers (pictured), and a standout performance by Paul Newman. However, the film’s gritty realism may have ultimately hindered its longevity. The levels of blood, violence, and profanity, including homophobic slurs, portrayed in the film would be deemed unacceptable by today’s standards.
While “Slap Shot” remains a beloved classic, its portrayal of aggression and offensive language reflects a bygone era in cinema. In a contemporary context, such content would likely face significant backlash and scrutiny for its insensitivity and lack of cultural awareness. Despite its status as a quintessential sports film, “Slap Shot” serves as a reminder of the evolving societal norms and expectations that shape the landscape of filmmaking.
‘Crocodile Dundee’ (1986)
“Crocodile Dundee” enjoyed both critical acclaim and box office success upon its release, earning star Paul Hogan an Oscar nomination. However, with the benefit of hindsight, the film’s portrayal of its titular character and certain comedic elements have come under scrutiny. The depiction of Paul Hogan’s character, Mick Dundee, perpetuates outdated stereotypes about Australians, which can be offensive to contemporary audiences.
Additionally, the film includes jokes about transgender individuals that are deemed highly inappropriate by today’s standards. These aspects of the film contribute to its problematic nature when viewed through a modern lens. While “Crocodile Dundee” remains a cultural touchstone for many, its flaws serve as a reminder of the need for critical examination and evolution in media representation.
‘Die Hard’ (1988)
“Die Hard” has attained unprecedented cultural relevance, its legacy sustained by a plethora of merchandise, memes, and perennial debates over its holiday movie status. Ironically, the film’s enduring popularity contrasts with the likelihood of its production in today’s climate. The movie’s unabashed violence and its somewhat lighthearted treatment of terrorism would likely encounter significant obstacles in contemporary filmmaking.
In an era marked by heightened sensitivity to issues of violence and terrorism, the premise of “Die Hard” might be deemed too contentious or inappropriate for mainstream production. While the film continues to captivate audiences with its action-packed narrative and charismatic protagonist, its creation today would undoubtedly face greater scrutiny and resistance from studios and audiences alike. Despite its enduring acclaim, “Die Hard” stands as a product of its time, its cultural resonance tempered by the evolving sensibilities of a changing world.
‘Forrest Gump’ (1994)
“Forrest Gump,” upon its 1994 release, garnered acclaim for its poignant portrayal of the Baby Boomer generation’s experiences throughout the latter half of the 20th century. However, as time has passed, the film’s Boomer-centric perspective on sensitive issues like the Vietnam War, peaceful protests, the Black Panther Party, and the AIDS epidemic, notably in its treatment of the character Jenny, has faced increasing criticism. In today’s evolving societal landscape, such a narrow focus on the Boomer generation’s narrative may be seen as outdated and exclusionary.
Any potential remake of “Forrest Gump” would necessitate substantial changes to address these concerns and present a more inclusive and nuanced perspective on the historical events and social issues depicted in the film. As audiences demand greater diversity and sensitivity in storytelling, revisiting “Forrest Gump” would require a reimagining that reflects a broader and more empathetic understanding of the complexities of the human experience across generations.
‘Caddyshack’ (1980)
“Caddyshack” endures as a beloved classic among comedy enthusiasts, yet its legacy is tainted by problematic elements that would be swiftly rejected in today’s filmmaking climate. While celebrated for its humor and memorable characters, the film is rife with racist and misogynistic dialogue that would likely not survive initial script revisions in contemporary Hollywood. The casual perpetuation of derogatory stereotypes and offensive language would undoubtedly face fierce criticism and condemnation from audiences and industry professionals alike.
As societal standards evolve and demand greater inclusivity and sensitivity, the outdated humor of “Caddyshack” serves as a reminder of the need for progress in representation and storytelling. While the film’s comedic moments may still resonate with some viewers, its reliance on harmful tropes underscores the importance of challenging and reevaluating past works through a modern lens.
‘Heathers’ (1989)
The Winona Ryder and Christian Slater film addresses the struggles of teenagers grappling with societal rejection, a theme still relevant today. However, its climax, depicting students blowing up their high school in a somewhat comedic manner, would likely be considered highly inappropriate in the current climate. With real-life school shootings tragically prevalent in America, such a portrayal would be deemed insensitive and potentially harmful.
While the film’s exploration of teenage alienation resonates with audiences, its treatment of violence within a school setting would undoubtedly raise serious concerns today. As society grapples with the impact of gun violence and seeks to promote safer environments for students, the comedic portrayal of such a drastic and destructive act would likely be met with strong criticism and condemnation. Thus, while the film’s underlying themes may still hold relevance, its handling of violence would necessitate significant reconsideration in today’s context.
‘Mr. Mom’ (1983)
The concept of “Mr. Mom” starring Michael Keaton would face significant challenges if proposed today due to its reliance on outdated gender stereotypes. The film centers around a father who must navigate the challenges of childcare after his wife secures a new job. However, in the current century, such a premise would likely be met with criticism for perpetuating traditional gender roles and reinforcing outdated notions of parenting responsibilities.
The idea of a man taking on the role of primary caregiver while the woman pursues a career is at odds with modern expectations of gender equality and shared responsibilities within families. Consequently, the film’s premise would likely be considered out of touch and insensitive to contemporary attitudes toward gender roles and parenting dynamics. While “Mr. Mom” may have resonated with audiences in its time, its conceptual framework would face significant scrutiny and resistance if attempted in today’s cultural climate.
‘Chasing Amy’ (1997)
While “Chasing Amy” was groundbreaking in 1997 for its candid portrayal of LGBTQ themes and characters, its central plot now feels antiquated and potentially offensive to contemporary audiences. Throughout the film, Ben Affleck’s character, Holden McNeil, persistently pursues Joey Lauren Adams’ character, Alyssa Jones, despite her identification as a lesbian. When Alyssa eventually agrees to date him, Holden reacts with anger and resentment toward her past.
While the film does acknowledge Holden’s wrongdoing, modern sensibilities would likely view the storyline as problematic regardless. Despite its nuanced exploration of complex relationships and sexual identity, the persistence of Holden’s pursuit and his subsequent behavior may alienate today’s viewers. While “Chasing Amy” remains a favorite among indie film enthusiasts and Kevin Smith fans, its central narrative may struggle to resonate with contemporary audiences who expect more sensitivity and awareness in storytelling.
‘Pocahontas’ (1995)
Disney’s 1995 animated film “Pocahontas” sparked controversy due to its significant deviations from the historical reality of the titular character and the portrayal of John Smith as a heroic figure. Over 25 years later, in an age where information is readily accessible, the film’s inaccuracies and cultural insensitivities would likely face even greater scrutiny. The widespread availability of historical facts and perspectives, facilitated by smartphone connectivity, would amplify awareness of the misrepresentation and romanticization of Indigenous cultures in the film.
Moreover, the continued emphasis on authentic representation and respect for diverse narratives in media would likely render the creation of such a film more problematic today. Disney would likely encounter significant backlash and criticism for perpetuating inaccuracies and cultural appropriation if they attempted to produce a similar adaptation of the Pocahontas story in contemporary times.
‘Back to the Future’ (1985)
“Back to the Future” is revered as a cinematic gem and a quintessential blockbuster of the 1980s. However, its comedic subplot involving quasi-incestuous undertones between Marty McFly and his mother Lorraine nearly derailed the film’s production in 1985. Today, such a storyline would likely face even greater scrutiny and backlash. In the wake of societal progress and heightened awareness of sensitive topics, the notion of romantic tension between a character and their own parent figure is considered highly taboo and inappropriate.
Should “Back to the Future” ever be remade in the future, it’s almost certain that this controversial subplot would either be heavily downplayed or altogether removed. While the film’s flawless script and enduring appeal have cemented its status as a classic, this particular aspect of its narrative serves as a reminder of the evolving standards and sensibilities of modern audiences.
‘The Police Academy’ Series (1984-1994)
Movies akin to the “Police Academy” series would face significant obstacles if produced in their original form today. These comedies, once celebrated for their slapstick humor and irreverent portrayal of law enforcement, would likely be perceived as insensitive and disrespectful to police officers by some segments of the audience. Conversely, others might interpret them as glorifying police behavior, a perspective that could offend those advocating for police reform or critical of law enforcement practices.
In today’s socio-political climate, where discussions surrounding policing are charged with heightened sensitivity and scrutiny, films depicting law enforcement in a comedic light risk sparking controversy and backlash from various quarters. Consequently, it’s improbable that movies resembling the “Police Academy” franchise would garner the same level of acceptance or enthusiasm from audiences and industry stakeholders if produced today.
‘The Bad News Bears’ (1976)
While “The Bad News Bears” may sound like a conventional sports movie with its underdog team and surly coach bonding over teamwork, its gritty portrayal of cursing, underage drinking, and occasional violence sets it apart. In today’s climate, such content would likely face significant scrutiny and backlash. The film’s original unapologetic depiction of these controversial themes would make it challenging to produce in the current era, where social attitudes towards language, substance use, and violence have evolved considerably.
The 2005 remake notably toned down these elements to align with contemporary sensibilities, reflecting the shifting landscape of acceptable content in cinema. As societal norms continue to evolve, it becomes increasingly improbable that a film like “The Bad News Bears,” with its raw and unfiltered portrayal of youth sports culture, would receive the same level of acceptance or support from audiences and studios alike.
‘The Toy’ (1982)
In “The Toy,” the narrative centers around a wealthy Caucasian man (portrayed by Jackie Gleason) who, in a misguided attempt to entertain his young son, hires an African American man (Richard Pryor) to essentially serve as a plaything and companion for the child.
This premise, reflective of a bygone era, would undoubtedly face significant criticism and backlash if attempted in today’s more socially aware and progressive climate.
‘Big’ (1988)
In a modern remake of “Big,” there would likely be some adjustments made to ensure a more appropriate dynamic between Tom Hanks’ character, Josh Baskin, a 12-year-old trapped in an adult’s body, and Susan, played by Elizabeth Perkins, a fully grown woman. Instead of the borderline uncomfortable relationship, the focus would be on their shared growth and friendship.
The plot could integrate subtler romantic elements between Josh and someone closer to his own age to avoid ethical concerns and make the story more contemporary. These changes would preserve the essence of the story while making it more appealing to a modern audience.
‘The Crying Game’ (1992)
In 1992, “The Crying Game” stirred controversy with its revelation that the character Dil was transgender, a twist unveiled midway through the film. The scene where another character reacts with revulsion, punching Dil and subsequently vomiting, would undoubtedly face significant backlash if produced today.
In today’s more sensitive cultural landscape, such a portrayal risks reinforcing harmful stereotypes and perpetuating violence against transgender individuals. The scene’s depiction of transphobia and violence would likely be seen as unacceptable and insensitive, particularly given the increased awareness and advocacy for transgender rights and representation in media. Consequently, the handling of such themes would require greater nuance and consideration in contemporary filmmaking.
‘Three Men and a Baby’ (1987)
“Three Men and a Baby” would face significant challenges if produced today due to its inclusion of homophobic jokes and the portrayal of Ted Danson’s character engaging in drug-related activities. The film’s reliance on these elements would likely be deemed unacceptable by contemporary standards, given society’s increased awareness of LGBTQ+ issues and the ongoing efforts to combat drug normalization in media.
The combination of these controversial themes would likely result in strong criticism and pushback if attempted in a modern production. As societal norms evolve, films like “Three Men and a Baby” serve as reminders of how attitudes and portrayals in media have shifted over time.
‘Monty Python’s Life of Brian’ (1979)
Monty Python’s 1979 film “Life of Brian” boldly satirized organized religion, presenting a comedic take on the story of a baby born near Jesus in a manger. Through irreverent humor, the film lampooned various elements of religious institutions, touching on sensitive topics that few major studios would dare to tackle today.
From its critique of religious dogma to its portrayal of devout followers, “Life of Brian” fearlessly challenged conventions and sparked debates about faith and society. In today’s climate of heightened sensitivity and potential backlash, it’s unlikely that a major studio would greenlight a project with such provocative themes and irreverent humor directed at organized religion.
‘Blazing Saddles’ (1974)
“Blazing Saddles” stands as a comedic classic, adeptly satirizing Hollywood clichés and societal norms, including those surrounding law enforcement. Yet, the script is fraught with racist and sexist language, laden with stereotypes. Mel Brooks, the film’s creator, acknowledged this in a Variety interview, lamenting the rise of what he perceives as excessive political correctness.
He argued that such an atmosphere stifles comedy. While the film’s humor has earned it enduring acclaim, its use of offensive language and stereotypes would likely provoke intense criticism in today’s more socially conscious climate. Brooks’ commentary reflects ongoing debates about the boundaries of humor and the evolution of societal sensibilities regarding representation and respect.
‘The Jerk’ – 1979
The opening line of “The Jerk,” in which the Caucasian character Navin R. Johnson, played by Steve Martin, declares, “I was born a poor black child,” attempts to derive humor from the premise of his adoption by an African American family. However, in today’s context, such racial dynamics and attempts at subversive comedy would likely be met with significant criticism and backlash.
Given the heightened awareness and sensitivity surrounding racial stereotypes and cultural appropriation, it’s understandable why a film with similar themes and humor would be deemed inappropriate for contemporary audiences. Society’s evolving attitudes towards race and representation make it unlikely that a film like “The Jerk” would be made again in today’s cultural climate.
’48 Hrs.’ (1982)
“48 Hrs.,” a classic buddy-cop film, may succeed in its portrayal of the dynamic between its lead characters. However, the film’s heavy reliance on sexually explicit and racially insensitive language, including the frequent use of the “n-word,” would render it highly inappropriate for today’s audiences.
In an era marked by heightened awareness of racial sensitivity and the harmful effects of derogatory language, the casual and unchecked use of such language in “48 Hrs.” would undoubtedly face severe criticism and backlash. The cultural shift towards greater inclusivity and respect for marginalized communities makes it clear that a film with similar language and themes would not be accepted in today’s social and political climate.
‘Dogma’ (1999)
Similar to “Life of Brian,” Kevin Smith’s “Dogma” satirized the inherent hypocrisies within organized Catholicism. Upon its release in 1999, the film sparked controversy, with Smith receiving death threats and facing protests. In the years since, societal tensions surrounding religion and blasphemy have only intensified.
Given the current climate of heightened sensitivity and polarized views, it’s doubtful that a film like “Dogma,” which boldly critiques religious institutions, could be produced today without facing immense backlash and censorship attempts. The potential for outrage and the risk of inciting violence would likely deter filmmakers and studios from tackling such contentious religious themes in a similar manner, making it increasingly unlikely for a film akin to “Dogma” to be greenlit in contemporary times.
‘Robocop’ (1987)
The original version of “Robocop” would likely face criticism from both ends of the political spectrum if released today. From the left, the film could be denounced for its portrayal of excessive violence perpetrated by law enforcement, even if justified within the narrative. On the other hand, the political right might take issue with the movie’s overt anti-capitalist themes and its critique of the U.S. justice system.
In today’s polarized climate, where discussions about law enforcement, capitalism, and social justice are highly charged, “Robocop” would likely provoke intense debate and backlash from various quarters. Its portrayal of societal issues and its commentary on power dynamics would undoubtedly be scrutinized through contemporary lenses, potentially leading to widespread condemnation from both liberal and conservative perspectives.
‘Tropic Thunder’ (2009)
“Tropic Thunder,” a comedy hit from 2009, earned praise for its satirical take on Hollywood, actors, and military culture. However, one aspect would render the film unlikely to be made today: Robert Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Kirk Lazarus, a white actor who dons blackface to portray the character Lincoln Osiris. While the film presented this as parody, society’s heightened awareness of racial insensitivity means that blackface, even in comedic contexts, is now widely recognized as offensive and unacceptable.
Given Downey’s prominent role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the inclusion of such a controversial element in a big-budget film would likely face immense backlash and condemnation. Consequently, the portrayal of blackface in “Tropic Thunder” would be deemed inappropriate and offensive in today’s cultural landscape.
‘Me, Myself, and Irene’ (2000)
The 2000 film “Me, Myself, and Irene” starring Jim Carrey revolved around a mentally ill state trooper who develops multiple personalities following a breakdown. The movie relied heavily on stereotypes about schizophrenia for comedic effect, sparking controversy upon its release.
Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness called for Carrey and the studio to release a public service announcement clarifying that the film did not accurately represent mental illness. Given the heightened awareness and sensitivity towards mental health issues today, it’s unlikely that a similar film would be greenlit for production, as it would likely face significant backlash for its portrayal of mental illness and perpetuation of harmful stereotypes.
‘Revenge of the Nerds’ (1984)
“Revenge of the Nerds,” often perceived as a light-hearted comedy about nerds triumphing over jocks, contains problematic and misogynistic elements that would likely be revised in a contemporary remake. These include scenes where the nerds covertly photograph a rival sorority and share the images without consent, as well as a disturbing instance of “rape by deception,” where a character impersonates another to engage in sexual activity with a female character.
Even the film’s original director, Jeff Kanew, acknowledged the troubling nature of such scenes, stating that if it were his daughter involved, he would disapprove. In today’s climate, with heightened awareness of issues surrounding consent and respect, these aspects of the film would undoubtedly face intense scrutiny and likely be revised or removed altogether in a modern adaptation.
‘I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry’ (2007)
The 2007 film “I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry,” starring Adam Sandler and Kevin James, revolves around two heterosexual firefighters who pretend to be gay to secure marriage benefits for one of their children. The movie heavily relies on mocking same-sex marriage and is rife with homophobic jokes.
Such content would face significant scrutiny and backlash if produced in the 2020s, given the increased awareness and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and representation. In today’s cultural landscape, a film perpetuating stereotypes and making light of serious issues like marriage equality would likely be deemed insensitive and inappropriate, making its production highly unlikely.
‘White Chicks’ (2004)
In the comedy film “White Chicks” (2004), FBI agent brothers Marcus (Marlon Wayans) and Kevin Copeland (Shawn Wayans) accidentally sabotage a drug bust. To atone, they’re tasked with escorting socialites to the Hamptons as bait for a kidnapper. However, the socialites decline, prompting Marcus and Kevin to impersonate them instead.
They undergo a transformation, masquerading as blonde, white women despite being African-American men. This premise, laden with racial and gender stereotypes, would likely encounter significant backlash if produced in the present era. Given heightened awareness of cultural sensitivity and the push for more authentic and inclusive representation, a film relying on such caricatures would face substantial criticism and scrutiny today.
‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ (1961)
A new adaptation of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” is likely inevitable, but it’s almost certain that the character of I. Y. Yunioshi won’t be portrayed by a white actor in yellowface, as Mickey Rooney did in the 1961 original film. Rooney’s performance has faced enduring criticism, with even the film’s director, Blake Edwards, expressing regret, wishing he could recast the role. Rooney himself exhibited conflicting sentiments in later years.
While he initially defended his portrayal, citing the director’s intentions for comedic effect, he also expressed remorse, acknowledging the offense it caused. Despite some positive reception, Rooney acknowledged the hurt it caused and extended his forgiveness to those who objected. Ultimately, the legacy of such portrayals underscores the evolving standards of cultural sensitivity and representation in the film industry, making it unlikely for such caricatures to be repeated in contemporary adaptations.
