Yellow Virile

To Asian guys, those most keen to perceive reality as dealt to them, the question regarding the media’s overwhelming negative portrayal of Asian men is undeniable. Yet, there are those on the opposite extreme who claim that it’s only in our heads, and that we’re “whining” about nothing, or are playing the “race” card. Well, although you are entitled to your opinion, I would wager you any time against it. To this end, consider the examples below - all culled from a random weekend of watching a bit of TV and movies. Still think Asian men are making things up? At the extreme, Asian men are portrayed horribly like this, lesser but still offensive examples follow below:


Example 1, Asian men characatured: From 2 episodes of Seinfeld:
Here are some random screen captures from two episodes of the highly exposed “Seinfeld” sitcom. This widely viewed series is part of Americana, yet when the extremely rare appearance of an Asian male, he is completely characatured with all the slant-eye, bucktooth expressions, and speaking in heavy accents.

Example 2, Asian women shown paired with white men: From the movie “Fracture” (2007)
This detective movie starring Anthony Hopkins trying to commit the perfect murder also went out of its way to subtly take a stab at Asian males. The story takes place in LA, where there is a HUGE Asian population, yet throughout the entire movie NOT ONCE was an Asian male shown. The four instance of Asian people being represented was ALL of Asian women paired with white men. In a way, such slight, almost subconscious exposure is worst because it sinks deep into the psyche and affects all parties involved. See the screen capture below:

Example 3, Asian men as gay/effeminate: From the movie “Kids”
Here is another indictment and de-sexualizing of the Asian male from the media. Notice the overwhelming times that Asian men simply do not get portrayed at all, and when they do it’s always in negative light. Pay attention to all the movies you watch and you will begin to see a stinging pattern. Here is a brief 15 seconds sequence from this controversial film dealing with teenage life in New York: This scene is almost unbelievable in the subtle (or not so subtle) message. A club line attendant is depicted as an extremely effeminate gay Asian male who shows the protagonist into the club (cutting in line). He walks, and gestures facially in exaggerated “feminine” manners, wearing a skirt-like attire to boot!! Moments later, the line is opened to the rest waiting, and immediately you see an Asian female/White male couple walking in, the girl toting the boy in hand. Such repeated exposures are completely unnecessary and damaging on MANY fronts. Wake up to it!

These are just some examples. If you pay attention, this phenomenon is multiplied thousands-fold every day; pay attention to print ads, TV ads, shows, movies, etc. Your thoughts? your opinion is appreciated.

Tokyo’s Sakaguchi Kenji (b. 1975, 6′1″) represents a rare duality of rugged sensitivity - that rare masculine, yet “in touch with his feelings” that women so talk about. This actor’s rugged appeal (inherited from his father who is a former champion professional heavyweight wrestler) has made him a favorite among women and is consistently voted sexiest by them.

Hong Kong singer/actor Shawn Yue (b. 1981, 5′10″) is another Asian male who is fast becoming a mainstay of regional entertainment. He represents the new generation of Asian males that emphasize a more modern urban image - often chic and style conscious.

Here is another recent upstart from Taipei, Taiwan: Jerry Huang (b. 1981, 6′4″) is tall with charm and commanding presence. Although he is of 100% Taiwanese extraction, he is often described as “eurasian” looking. Regardless, this model/actor has a promising career on the upswing.

South Korean soccer (football) player Anh Jung Hwan (b. 1976, 5′10″) has become a household name and national hero in his homeland after leading S. Korea to the quarter finals in the 2002 World Cup. He’s also become a marketing icon in Asia as well. This Asian athlete has played professional soccer in various teams in Korea, Japan, and European leagues.