Soul Man (1986)

"Soul Man" (1986) is a controversial comedy film that follows Mark Watson, a privileged white student, as he makes the ethically dubious decision to darken his skin with pills in order to qualify for an African-American-only scholarship at Harvard Law School. The film, starring C. Thomas Howell, Rae Dawn Chong, and James Earl Jones, explores themes of racial identity and privilege through the lens of satire, often generating both laughter and discomfort with its premise and execution. While the film was a commercial success, it also faced criticism for its portrayal of race and its use of blackface, leading to ongoing debates about its cultural impact. While not as well-known as some of Steve Miner's other works, "Soul Man" represents a significant departure for the director. Best known for his work in the horror genre, including "Friday the 13th Part 2," "Friday the 13th Part III," and "House," Miner demonstrated a willingness to take on a comedic and socially relevant project with "Soul Man". The film showcased his versatility as a director, managing to balance the film's more serious themes with the humor of its premise, making it a curious and noteworthy entry within his filmography, and a reflection of his exploration of diverse cinematic styles.