The new film adaptation of “The Color Purple” has been marketed as a modern retelling of the classic story. But while the movie aims to captivate audiences, it also opens conversation on the controversial history of its author, Alice Walker.
The movie musical, set to debut in theaters on Christmas Day, highlights the self-empowerment and discovery of sexuality of a young Black woman in the early-1900s rural South. The powerful and poignant narrative of “The Color Purple” has become a familiar tale, thanks to Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 1982 novel, which was later adapted into a popular film and a 2015 revival of the stage musical.
However, the reputation of the author behind this beloved story has become a point of contention – particularly due to her views on Judaism and Israel. Walker’s outspoken criticism of Israel and affiliation with an antisemitic conspiracy theorist have generated controversy and backlash within the Jewish community. These views led to the author being disinvited from a major book festival last year.
Despite Walker’s falling out with the Jewish community, the acclaimed filmmaker Steven Spielberg, who directed the original film adaptation of “The Color Purple,” remains involved with the new production as a producer. Alongside Oprah Winfrey and Quincy Jones, Spielberg walked the red carpet at the premiere of the new film.
Walker’s history as a civil rights activist and her marriage to a Jewish lawyer have raised questions about the complexity of her relationships with Judaism and Israel. Her critiques of Israel and support for the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions movement have resulted in strained relations with both her ex-husband and the Jewish community at large. Additionally, her open endorsement of antisemitic conspiracy theorist David Icke has fueled further controversy.
While the new film projects a fresh take on “The Color Purple,” the prominent placement of Walker’s daughter, Rebecca, as an executive producer of the movie alongside her mother raises further intrigue. It’s clear that the legacy of “The Color Purple” is deeply intertwined with the complexities of Alice Walker’s personal history and beliefs.
As the new adaptation of “The Color Purple” takes center stage, it invites audiences to ponder the multidimensional nature of its beloved creator and the ongoing impact of her challenging views.