Hollywood Shuffle 1987

Aspiring actor Bobby Taylor (no relation) is driven by a passion to break into the entertainment industry, fueled by his younger brother Stevie’s unwavering support. However, his grandmother’s stern disapproval of his chosen profession and her suggestion that he consider a respectable job at the post office serve as a constant reminder of the challenges he faces. Undeterred, Bobby’s mother remains steadfast in her encouragement, and he assures her that landing a role in Jivetime Jimmy’s Revenge, a film replete with tired stereotypes about street gangs, would be a game-changer for their family’s fortunes.

Following his audition, Bobby engages in a candid conversation with Mr. Jones, the proprietor of Winky Dinky Dog, where he works part-time. Jones expresses concern about Bobby’s dedication to his job, given his frequent absences due to auditions and casting calls. Just as Bobby is pondering his response, a sleek limousine arrives on the scene, disgorging none other than B. B. Sanders (Batty Boy), a renowned actor known for his work in the popular sitcom There’s a Bat in My House. Overjoyed at the opportunity to meet a role model, Bobby seeks Sanders’ counsel on how to determine whether a script is worth taking. Sanders delivers a pragmatic assessment, emphasizing that acting is not about artistic expression but rather a means of generating revenue through sequels and merchandising opportunities.

The news from his agent that Bobby’s audition has gone well and he’s been invited to a callback arrives as a welcome respite. However, the producers’ insistence on an “Eddie Murphy-type” performance sends him reeling into a nightmare in which the director, writer, and casting director converge to browbeat him into becoming Eddie Murphy. As he waits in line with a group of lookalikes, Bobby begins to transform into the very actor he’s being asked to emulate before awakening in shock.

The next day, his coworkers at Winky Dinky Dog, Donald and Tiny, dismiss Bobby’s aspirations, prompting him to tender his resignation. That evening, he seeks solace in the counsel of his uncle Ray, a talented singer who once had stardom within his grasp but opted for stability instead. Ray’s words of encouragement prove a balm to Bobby’s doubts, and he decides to press on with his dreams.

At his callback, the director, writer, and casting director are effusive in their praise, and Bobby is thrilled to learn that he’s landed the lead role. As he looks back on the journey that brought him here, he realizes that perseverance and a willingness to take risks have ultimately paid off.

As Bobby (actor name) basks in the glory of his newfound success, his subconscious begins to wrestle with the moral implications of his latest role. The manifestations of his inner turmoil take the form of vivid daydreams, which unfold like surreal vignettes on the canvas of his mind. In one such fantasy sequence, titled “Black Acting School,” Bobby witnesses white coaches instructing black performers on how to tap into their supposed cultural heritage, only to produce a watered-down imitation of authenticity. Another dream, “Sneaking Into the Movies,” finds two young black men effortlessly slipping past ticket takers and delivering scathing reviews of cinematic abominations like Amadeus Meets Salieri, Chicago Jones and the Temple of Doom, Dirty Larry, and Attack of the Street Pimps.

Meanwhile, at home, Bobby’s euphoria is tempered by a visit from his grandmother and girlfriend Lydia. The trio settles in to watch a classic film noir, which serves as a catalyst for Bobby’s fantasies about bringing his own cinematic vision to life. In one such reverie, he envisions himself starring in the title role of Death of a Breakdancer, a gritty tale that combines the moody atmosphere of neo-noir with the high-energy world of breakdancing.

That night, Bobby’s dreams take on a more surreal quality as he imagines himself inhabiting a wide range of iconic roles. He sees himself as a Shakespearean king, commanding the respect and admiration of his peers. Next, he finds himself embodying the spirit of a black superhero, using his extraordinary abilities to protect and serve the community. Finally, Bobby’s subconscious conjures up a fantasy in which he plays a black version of Rambo, battling against the forces of oppression with unyielding determination.

In his final dream sequence, Bobby envisions himself standing triumphantly on stage, clutching his fifth Oscar statuette as the crowd erupts into applause. The next day, Bobby sets to work filming Jivetime Jimmy’s Revenge, with his family in attendance. However, as the cameras roll, Bobby’s guilt over playing a stereotypical character begins to overwhelm him. In a bold move, he quits the production, refusing to compromise his artistic integrity.

In the aftermath of Bobby’s departure, another cast member – who had previously voiced concerns about the project’s racial stereotypes – hypocritically seizes the opportunity to take on Bobby’s role. Undeterred, Bobby and his family leave the set with their heads held high, proud of the decision they made to stand by their artistic principles.

The film concludes with Bobby preparing for an upcoming on-camera scene. In a poignant echo of his grandmother’s earlier wisdom, he finds himself filming a TV public service announcement for the US Postal Service – a reminder that even in the cutthroat world of Hollywood, there is always room for a little bit of humility and compassion.