HOLLYWEIRD – Disney’s latest venture into folklore adaptation, “John Henry,” has sparked a wave of controversy as fans express concern over the casting choice of Xiang Huaxiang, an up-and-coming action star from China, in the titular role. The film, set to release during the summer blockbuster season, has ignited debate among fans of the American folk hero, with many questioning whether Huaxiang’s physique aligns with the legendary figure of John Henry.
For those unfamiliar, the tale of John Henry has been a staple of American folklore for generations. Henry, a legendary figure celebrated for his immense strength and skill with an oversized hammer, famously challenged a steam-powered drill in a race to construct a railway in the American West. Despite his victory over the machine, the exertion reportedly led to his tragic demise from heart failure, a testament to his unwavering determination and indomitable spirit.
However, the controversy surrounding Disney’s adaptation stems from the perceived disparity between Huaxiang’s muscular physique and the traditional image of John Henry as a working-class hero. While Huaxiang certainly possesses the physicality for the role, some fans argue that his bodybuilder-like physique deviates from the character’s likely appearance as a railroad worker of the 19th century.
Experts in historical accuracy have weighed in, noting that John Henry would have likely maintained a robust yet practical physique, fueled by a diet of beef, bread, and black coffee. Disney’s decision to replace coffee with green tea in the film, along with the absence of the carbohydrate-heavy staples like hardtack and cornbread, further exacerbates concerns about the authenticity of Huaxiang’s portrayal.
Moreover, the film’s reinterpretation of John Henry’s fate has raised eyebrows among fans of the original tale. Rather than succumbing to heart failure after his victory over the steam-powered drill, the adaptation depicts Henry as a shrewd businessman who reverse engineers the machine and sells it to railroad companies using cheaper, low quality materials and exploiting the labor of freed slaves to dominate the market.
In addition to the action-packed sequences, “John Henry” promises to delve into the personal life of the titular character, exploring themes of family, social change, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Scenes depict Henry’s struggles to provide for his large family amidst shifting societal norms and the encroachment of industrialization, and making sure that all 8 children get into Ivy League Schools.
Despite the backlash from some fans, Disney has stood by its casting choice and vision for the adaptation. Any criticism of the decision to cast Huaxiang as John Henry has been labeled as potentially racist, so don’t even try to compare this to Hamilton, The Little Mermaid, Annie, Daredevil, The Shawshank Redemption, Thor, I am Legend, Anne Boleyn, Troy: Fall of a City, Spider Man; Homecoming, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, or any of the other race-swapped casting choices in the few decades.
As anticipation builds for the release of “John Henry,” the controversy surrounding the film serves as a reminder of the challenges inherent in adapting beloved folklore for contemporary audiences. Whether Disney’s interpretation will resonate with viewers and stand the test of time remains to be seen.
Mohammed Sinclair
