Brie Larson bats for diversity in media

Brie Larson has called for inclusion of minorities and other under-represented sections in media and entertainment industry.

The Oscar winner, who was honoured with the Crystal Award for Excellence in Film, dedicated her acceptance speech to discuss a "Critic's Choice" study, published by USC Annenberg, Variety reported.

"Of the 100 highest-grossing movies in 2017, less than a quarter of the critics were white women, less than ten per cent were under-represented men, and only 2.5 per cent were women of colour," Larson said.

She further said she does not want a "white man" offering his critic for a diversity highlighting film such as "A Wrinkle in Time".

"I don't want to hear what a white man has to say about 'A Wrinkle in Time'. I want to hear what a woman of colour, a biracial woman has to say about the film. I want to hear what teenagers think about the film.

"If you make a movie that is a love letter to women of colour, there is a chance that a woman of colour does not have access to review and critique your film. Do not say the talent is not there, because it is," she said.

The 29-year-old actor repeatedly asked the audience throughout her speech, "Am I saying I hate white dudes?" "No, I'm not," she answered.

Larson said there is a burning need to have a more inclusive base of reporters and journalists as "reviews change lives" and impact the films that are considered for awards season.

"Please make sure that these invites and credentials find their way to more under-represented journalists and critics, many of whom are freelancers," she added.

The actor revealed plans to roll out an opt-in program that will provide studios with access to under-represented journalists and critics.

Larson also announced that the Sundance Film Festival and the Toronto Film Festival have pledged 20 per cent of their credentials for minorities to reflect a more inclusive, holistic and better America.