Eli5 (and a German) the problem with black facing.

Question

So I rewatched Pulp Fiction last night and thought it would be so nice to dress up on a Party as Jules, bringing a Big Kahuna Cup to drink from and quoting Ezekiel 25:17 and all.
To me this would be an act of showing how cool I find him.
In general I think dressing up as someone else could be considered a compliment to them, as it shows you’d like to be them, if only for a night.

So I am probably missing something here!
(I know it is a touchy topic and it’s not my intention to step on anyones toes.)

Edit: Added missing verb “showing”

Edit 2: Of cause I knew it is problematic! (Although I underestimated how much) I never had the intention to actually do more then fantasize about it (there isn’t even a real party coming up, it was just a thought), however I was interested in the American and the European (German) perspective. Seeing how lively this discussion is, seeing how very differnt the arguments and perspectives are, and reading all the interesting background information (I had never heared of “Minstrels”), I am very happy I asked!

In: 7450

Answer 1

It’s generally accepted as okay to play a black character, but not to play a black as a character, if that makes sense. It’s one thing to play the rile of a dark skinned person, it’s an entire different thing if the dark skin IS the role.

To explain, most people don’t mind you dressing up as Jules, but if you were dressing up as “a black” then you’re clearly crossing the line.

You honestly don’t need to wear skin darkening makup to play Jules from pulp fiction is the thing. The fact that he’s black isn’t really a part of his character or relevant to the film. Jules can be anyone with the rigt auttitude.

The reasons why blackface is bad have been explained already, I’m just trying to define the line.

I general, unless you know exactly what you’re doing and have the skills to do it respectfully, you should probably stick to your own skin color. Especially when it’s something as simple as a movie cosplay.

Just work on the crazy eyes and your delivery of “mothafucka”, get your kahuna cup, glowing briefcase, wig, and fake facial hair and people will recognise you I’m sure.