Research Problem / Research Question / Research Hypotheses:
How does the development of gender relations in film relate to contemporary society? How meaningful are the “Bechdel Test” and the “Mako Mori Test” as a general tool for measuring feminism? Why are female hero roles in action films so lacking in depth, and what constitutes strong, feminine roles? How are the main female characters portrayed through visual appearance / language / behavior?
Methodology:
-Content analysis: selected films are tested using a coding sheet with 15 test items; comparison of character portrayals, plot interpretations, and realistic reflections;
Analysis of sexual objectification (amount of visible skin) of main and supporting female characters compared to box office ranking;
-Textual analysis: selected films are analyzed based on film reviews.
Comparison of cinematic feminism in mainstream blockbuster films and non-blockbuster arthouse films.
Selection of successful films in five(?) year intervals over a period of time to show any changes in the portrayal of women over time
2022: Top Gun: Maverick $1,484,620,609
2021: Spider-Man: No Way Home $739,351,607
2020: Bad Boys for Life $426,505,244
2019: Avengers: Endgame $2,797,800,564
2018: Avengers: Infinity War $2,048,359,754
Sources:
Women-led films: different female representations in popular cinemas
Palatable Feminism: Reinforcing and Challenging Gender Stereotypes in Contemporary Hollywood Action Films:
The Empowering (Super) Heroine? The Effects of Sexualized Female Characters in Superhero Films on Women
The role of women in film: Supporting the men — An analysis of how culture influences the changing discourse on gender representations in film
BADASS BITCHES, DAMSELS IN DISTRESS, OR SOMETHING IN BETWEEN?
Representation of female characters in superhero action films
