Misinterpreting Women in Film Preserves a Stereotypical Patriarchal Society

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Recommended: Women in a patriarchal society

Grossman states that the misinterpretation of women in film by men and the general public, results in continuous preservation and standardization of a stereotypical patriarchal society. It is imperative to reinterpret and analyse the implicit psychosocial portrayal of female characters in film noir.
The disregard of women’s individuality alongside males imposing their lust and anxiety on women has created the notion of the “femme fatale”. The term connotes that such women are unorthodox, through their radical desires and aspirations, has led to the emphasis of sensuality which jeopardizes traditional hierarchy. The intransigence of gender roles results in dissension of the intricacy and psychological insight in female characters, where women are restricted by the imposition of domesticating chores and reinforces a male-dominated society. A contrasting perspective would delve into the motivation behind the actions, preventing the blatant dismissal of women’s fears as an act of rebellion. It is vital to relook into the attitudes, brought forth unconsciously, when interpreting films.
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