Representation: the description or portrayal of someone or something in a particular way. Representation is usually associated with the representation of sex, race and sexual orientation. Of course representation can be associated with anything in media but it is commonly linked with these three major topics. Films made in the mid 20th century, such as "12 Angry Men" show a much stronger representation for white males than women or other races. For example, "12 Angry Men" features few characters throughout the entire film and displays no female characters at all. The offender, a young 18 year old, is of a different ethnic minority which means that these 12 jurors are likely to show prejudice arguments against him. All jurors are working class white males, except for one man who is a European man (likely to be from Italy) who has experienced fascism and prejudice before, therefore he wants democracy. What is the male gaze? "The Male Gaze" is a theory created by Laura Mulvey in 1975. The theory suggests that the male characters are the "bearers of the look" which is usually aimed at physically desirable, sexually submissive female characters. She also argues that women are only placed into these films for their physical appearance and not for their contribution to the plot. An example of The Male Gaze is in transformers when Megan Fox takes a look at the car after it breaks down. The male character is overwhelmed by Megan Fox's character. This is because Megan Fox is being seductive with her costume, body language and dialogue. She is talking about cars like an expert which attracts the male. This theory in some cases can be disproved. An example of this is the 1990s Diet Coke ad, where many women, who work in an office, take time off from working to stare at a topless muscular man. This suggests a "female gaze" rather than a "male gaze". The advert is aimed at women but uses an attractive man to get their attention. |
Will TownsendA keen videographer and photographer. Currently studying Level 3 Creative Media Production at SGS WISE Campus, Bristol. Archives
November 2015
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