Roswell Television Show: A Deeper Look at Alienation and Identity

The CW’s Roswell, New Mexico isn’t just a reboot; it’s a reimagining of the original series and the Roswell High books that delves into themes of identity, alienation, and the struggles of marginalized communities in modern America. Creator Carina Adly Mackenzie consciously crafted the show to reflect these issues, drawing inspiration from her own personal experiences and a commitment to authentic representation.

Mackenzie’s decision to reinstate Liz Ortecho as a Latina character, as she was originally in the book series, was a pivotal starting point. This choice allowed the show to explore the specific challenges faced by a Mexican-American woman in today’s society, from everyday microaggressions to systemic discrimination. The writing team, crew, and cast were deliberately diversified to ensure Liz’s story resonated with truth and nuance. Collaboration with Define American, an organization dedicated to improving the portrayal of immigration in media, further solidified this commitment to authenticity.

Beyond Liz, the show’s diverse casting extends to other characters like Maria DeLuca, Kyle Valenti, and Alex Manes, reflecting the multicultural reality of Roswell and providing a platform for stories that often go untold. However, Mackenzie’s conscious choice to cast white actors as the alien siblings Max, Michael, and Isobel was made with deliberate intent and communicated transparently to the network and studio.

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While Mackenzie acknowledges that Liz’s specific experiences as a Latina woman are not her own, she draws parallels to the universal themes of otherness and alienation, exploring these through the lens of the alien characters. Growing up as a white woman with a Muslim mother, Mackenzie witnessed firsthand the insidious nature of prejudice and the harmful impact of Islamophobia following the events of 9/11.

This personal experience informs the narrative of Roswell, New Mexico, particularly in Max Evans’ journey. Initially benefiting from the privilege of appearing as a white man, Max grapples with the decision to reveal his true identity and stand in solidarity with those who are marginalized. The show explores the complexities of “passing,” the internal conflict of impostor syndrome, and the ultimate choice to leverage privilege to amplify the voices of the voiceless. This resonates with Mackenzie’s own journey of finding her voice and speaking out against injustice.

The show tackles complex issues, mirroring real-world anxieties and prejudices faced by marginalized communities. The fear and hatred directed toward Muslims after 9/11, experienced firsthand by Mackenzie and her family, provide a framework for understanding the aliens’ fear of exposure and the potential consequences of being different. The show’s exploration of these themes allows viewers to empathize with characters who are “othered” and understand the importance of allyship.

The decision to reveal Max’s alien identity and the subsequent repercussions reflect the challenges faced by individuals who choose to stand up for what’s right, even when it means risking their own safety and comfort. Max’s journey mirrors Mackenzie’s personal evolution from silence to advocacy, highlighting the importance of using one’s platform to challenge prejudice and promote understanding. Roswell, New Mexico ultimately utilizes the science fiction genre as a powerful vehicle for exploring real-world issues and promoting empathy in a divided society.