Film Lens
COMPLEXion focuses on the societal pressures surrounding beauty standards, particularly in India. Nina Davuluri, the first South Asian Miss America, reflects on her experiences with colorism and the impact of skin whitening products. The film begins with her emotional return to India, where she recalls a moment from her childhood involving a mother buying skin lightening cream for her daughter, illustrating the deep-rooted beliefs about beauty and success tied to skin color.
The documentary features conversations with individuals from various socioeconomic backgrounds, including girls at an orphanage in Kolkata. Through these discussions, it examines the pervasive belief that lighter skin equates to beauty and worth, challenging viewers to consider the implications of these standards. The film raises critical questions about the cost of beauty and the need for societal change in perceptions of skin color.
Why Watch
- •Meet Nina Davuluri and hear her personal story.
- •Find out why skin whitening creams are so popular.
- •See the impact of colorism on young girls in India.
- •Learn about the projected growth of the skin whitening industry.
Did You Know
•The global market for skin whitening creams was $8.8 billion in 2022.
•Nina Davuluri became the first South Asian Miss America in 2014.
•The Times of India questioned Davuluri's beauty based on her skin color the day after her win.
•Skin whitening products often contain toxic ingredients like hydroquinone and mercury.
Perfect For
Social justice advocatesBeauty industry criticsCultural studies enthusiastsFans of personal stories