The Great Unwokening: Sydney Sweeney and Hollywood's Cultural Shift

Sydney Sweeney's rise in Hollywood has occurred against a backdrop of increasing discussions about representation and political alignment within the entertainment industry. According to The Guardian, the so-called 'great unwokening' of Hollywood has been characterized by a growing visibility of conservative voices and a pushback against what some perceive as a liberal orthodoxy in the arts.

Sweeney, known for her breakout role in 'Euphoria,' has found herself at the center of this cultural shift, especially after she participated in an advertising campaign for American Eagle that sparked controversy and accusations of flirting with white supremacist eugenics.

Critics have noted that Sweeney, who reportedly registered as a Republican voter in Florida prior to the Trump election, embodies a return to more traditional, white-centric beauty standards in popular culture.

In an interview with GQ, Sweeney addressed the backlash, suggesting that when she has something to say, people will listen. This comment has led some right-wing commentators to view her as a figurehead for a movement away from cancel culture in Hollywood.

However, the commercial success of her latest film, 'Christy,' which portrays boxer Christy Martin, has been disappointing, recording one of the worst opening weekends in box office history, following other flops like 'Eden' and 'Americana.' The Guardian suggests that despite her prominence, the right may not have the actual commitment to support films that align with conservative ideologies.

The article raises questions about whether the conservative movement can genuinely disrupt Hollywood, as the desire for a cultural representation does not always translate into audience turnout for conservative-themed films.

The notion of a post-woke Hollywood has been met with skepticism, especially in light of the success of diverse films that celebrate underrepresented voices, such as 'Sinners' and 'One Battle After Another,' which have garnered critical acclaim and Oscar buzz.

Critics argue that true popularity in culture cannot be manufactured and that audiences ultimately seek quality in their entertainment, regardless of whether it aligns with specific political or cultural narratives.

The different trajectories of Sweeney and other rising stars like mixed-race actor Chase Infiniti illustrate the complexities of representation in today’s entertainment landscape, which continues to evolve amid broader societal debates about diversity and inclusion.