Sexuality is an essential aspect of human nature that has been explored through various mediums throughout history. Films have played a significant role in shaping how society views sexuality, particularly when it comes to depicting sexual desire, gender roles, and adolescent relational expectations. This article will examine these three topics and how they are portrayed in movies.
Sexual desire is often presented in films through romanticized scenarios where the male protagonist pursues the female character, while the female character is passive and submissive. The male gaze is also prevalent, where men objectify women's bodies for pleasure.
Some recent films such as 'Call Me By Your Name' and 'Blue Is The Warmest Color' have challenged these norms, showcasing same-sex relationships and female empowerment.
Gender roles are commonly depicted as traditional, with males taking the dominant position and females being subservient. In contrast, modern movies like 'The Big Sick' and 'Lady Bird' feature strong female leads who defy societal expectations. Feminism is becoming more accepted, and films are starting to reflect this change by breaking down stereotypes associated with femininity and masculinity.
Adolescent relational expectations are often glorified in films, portraying romance as the ultimate goal. Movies such as 'Titanic' and 'Twilight' perpetuate the idea that true love conquers all, despite its unrealistic nature. Conversely, 'Eighth Grade' shows the complexities of teenage relationships and how they can be confusing, anxiety-inducing, and messy.
Media has a significant influence on society's perceptions of sexuality, which is why it is crucial to examine film representations of sex, desire, gender roles, and relationships. While there have been positive changes made in these areas, many stereotypes still exist within the industry. Hopefully, future films will continue to push boundaries and create nuanced stories that represent real life experiences.
How do films and media portray sexual desire, gender roles, and adolescent relational expectations?
Despite some progress made over the past decades, most popular movies still tend to depict traditional gender roles and stereotypes regarding romantic relationships. Typical examples include male actors being portrayed as aggressive and dominant while females are passive and submissive. In contrast, more modern films may showcase a more equal distribution of power within a relationship; however, they often present heterosexuality as an expected norm rather than an option.