International Journal of Arts and Humanities

ISSN 2360-7998

Unpacking the Masculine Gaze: A Close Reading of Patriarchal Power Dynamics in Contemporary Film Narratives


In this paper, I would use the example of discrimination against women in the film industry to begin an in depth discussion of gender representation in modern cinema. Recently, several filmmakers have expressed concern over reported instances of misogyny in the industry. Several journalists have covered the issue, and many producers have even attempted to explain why women are portrayed differently. What’s more, even women who have come out of the industry have been quite vocal about their experiences regarding gender discrimination. Looking at both filmmaking and reporting from a feminist perspective, where both men and women work together, I would like to scrutinize movies that take place in a liberal society and commercializes female bodies for publicity. This would also bring into contemplation the intricacy of representing women as more than mere objects. It's also common for female leads in female-oriented films to be portrayed in an utterly negative light. They are usually shown as antagonists, who desire to control other people's homes, and the only goal that they wish to achieve through subverting pre-established gendered power hierarchies is to dominate men.

 

Keywords: Masculine Gaze: Power Relations, Cinematic Stories.