Discursive Construction of New Female Identity in Latest Hollywood Blockbuster Movies

Abstract

This study analyses the emergence of female portrayal in latest Hollywood superhero movies, after the #MeToo global movement about awareness of sexual harassment. This research adopts a qualitative approach in analysing the constructs of doing and undoing gender in blockbuster movies by Marvel and DC comics. This study seeks to explore the shift towards discursive and screen empowerment of female lead and supporting characters. Such movies serve as a barometer of the cultural and social milieu and hence project how women can display range of capabilities, independence and emotional strength on screen, so to pave the way for viewers. The premise of this paper is rooted in events following 9/11 and how blockbuster films helped in social uplifting by showing solutions till date. All such attempts of social restorations were led by all-male teams of superheroes, the events in recent couple of years are looking quite different. The discussion is rooted in transition from Zimmerman’s idea of ‘doing gender’ (1997), for social conformity, to Deutsch’s proposal of ‘undoing gender’ (2007), where females adopt a powerful position and voice. This approach resonates with latest, or fourth wave, of feminism. The emergence of able-minded stronger women is taking over and shaping new Man, a flexible, emotional and imperfect male. The paper also glimpses into other genres and studios’ movies of the recent times to find signs of change.