Art is a unique phenomenon used by individuals to speak about specific values dominant at the moment, embody various ideas, or discuss relations within society between representatives of various groups. Cinema is a unique form of creativity that is extremely popular nowadays and attracts millions of viewers globally. As any form of art, it depicts attitudes and behavioral patterns peculiar to modern communities. Thus, gender relations and differences are also given much attention because of their everlasting importance to the world. Thus, the differences in male and female behaviors observed in modern movies show the current gender stereotypes and perspectives on masculinity and femininity. The following comparison can help to prove this statement.
Love is one of the motifs that has always been popular in various forms of art. Numerous films made today revolve around romantic feelings and characters’ struggle to be loved. At the same time, women and men have different ways of responding to this emotion. Most movies traditionally depict females as sensitive, shy, and hesitant individuals waiting for the first move from their potential partners (Abi-Karam). They often cry because of emotions and might be scared of the strong feeling. Men are shown as less sensitive and more prosaic (Abi-Karam). They devote less attention to the emotional aspect and complexity of their feelings while trying to act fast to impress their partners.
Fear states on the far side of love; however, it is as well a common situation in modern movies. The popularity of horrors promoted numerous scenes with men and women reacting to a possible threat. Gender stereotypes brightly affect this sphere, as the last ones are usually depicted as more terrified compared to men (Abi-Karam). They lose control and are overcome with panic, trying to run, or crying. Men usually are more resistant to fear and act as saviors in various situations. They are courageous and brave and have a plan that might save everyone from an imminent threat (Abi-Karam). This difference comes from the views on masculinity and femininity that have been dominating society for numerous decades.
Finally, males and females behave differently regarding stress or failure. Most movies describe men who might start drinking or become addicted (Abi-Karam). They might avoid talking or sharing with others because of stereotypes and conceal emotions. Women are shown as more resistant to stress as they use various strategies to manage it. They can discuss it with their friends and ask for advice. Moreover, they often cry, which also helps them relieve negative emotions and ensure their stress levels reduce (Abi-Karam). Finally, they rarely drink as it is viewed as the typical male response to failures or dramatic events. These behavior models underline the differences in psychologies and mentalities between men and women.
Altogether, the film industry offers numerous movies depicting how individuals act in different situations. As any form of art, it is influenced by the stereotypes and dominant values peculiar to society at the moment. For this reason, male and female behaviors shown in the movie can also be analyzed from this perspective. Women are usually more sensitive, with complex feelings, and ready to cry to release negative emotions. They are more vulnerable than men, who can concentrate in complex situations. They are shown as more practical and less emotional but more vulnerable to stress and dramatic situations. In such a way, movies support the stereotypic perspective on differences between men and women.
Work Cited
Abi-Karam, Mary.“The Effect of Gender Stereotypes in Film.” ReDefy.