As an important medium of information dissemination, film even serves as a form of historical record to a certain extent, and we can observe the social customs and cultural backgrounds of a particular period through the cinematic works of that time.（Rosenstone，2017).
Taking Hollywood as a prime example, for an extended period of time, certain mainstream films were heavily laden with elements of the male gaze, primarily due to factors such as power dynamics and gender ideologies. As Mulvey (1975) emphasizes, the male gaze signifies the representation of women in visual media predominantly from a male perspective. This implies that the portrayal of women often serves the primary function of catering to and pleasing male audiences. A closer examination of the films from the so-called Golden Age of Hollywood reveals that numerous motion pictures from this era were, in fact, characterized by this male gaze.
early James Bond films, such as those in the 007 series, female characters seemed to exist merely for the audience’s enjoyment and to highlight James Bond’s heroic deeds at crucial moments. Exaggerated screaming appeared to be a significant characteristic of female roles in this type of commercial film from the past.
The photograph of Marilyn Monroe that has now become a popular icon also hides behind it the disrespect and symbolization of female actors by Hollywood studios.
However, as time progresses, an increasing number of people have recognized the significant roles women play in social life. The wave of the women’s suffrage movement has also made it a general trend to stop objectifying women, giving women more opportunities to showcase their independent personalities. This reflection has also influenced the film industry, where the efforts of several generations of female practitioners have led to equal pay for equal work. Female characters in films are no longer one-sided or stereotyped. They are gradually breaking free from the stereotypes under the male gaze and finding their own paths. Film and television works are also increasingly focusing on the intrinsic value of women, creating female characters that empower themselves.（Wang & Liu, 2023).
Taking the previously mentioned 007 as an example, in the new series of films, women are no longer paper-thin characters serving merely as ornaments. Instead, they occupy important positions in the plot. Martial arts superstar like Michelle Yeoh have infused the Bond girls with the beauty of strength from the East. In the latest film, a female agent even briefly takes over the code name 007.
Indeed, the dialogue between the male and female leads in When Harry Met Sally about Casablanca brings up some interesting perspectives. The male lead, from his male perspective, stereotypically believes that the female lead should stay and choose love. However, the female lead argues that leaving Casablanca is a better choice for her as a woman and can bring more benefits to both herself and the collective. These words reflect the struggle of women to break free from male gaze.
The admirable Emma Thompson delivers a daring nude performance in Good Luck to You, Leo Grande, which seems to be one of the few films that allow us to confront not only the stereotypical playboys portrayed in previous media works but also the right of even older women to pursue a new life and face their own sexuality and desires. Women are never derivative of men; they too have the agency to choose their own lives.
However, there are also some film and television companies that have not truly delved into this topic. It seems that women and minorities are merely emotional cards they play to make money. I believe that this irresponsibility towards works and audiences is the biggest form of male gaze today, and the greatest insult to women and minorities.
In conclusion, the author believes that as society becomes more open and inclusive, male gaze is no longer acceptable in the film and television industry. Women’s strength and individuality can be more fully displayed in works. However, we must also guard against this mindset being stereotyped and controlled by large capital companies and extremists.
