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Beyond the Gaze: Cinema's Patriarchal Lens
5 Sep
Summary
- Film 'Toxic' sparks debate on female gaze versus male gaze.
- Cinematic objectification questions who truly controls desire.
- Patriarchal machinery, not just camera holder, dictates cinema.
The film 'Toxic' has sparked significant discussion regarding the concept of the female gaze in cinema. Directed by Geetu Mohandas, the movie's portrayal of its male protagonist prompts questions about whether a film by a woman automatically embodies a female perspective.
Discussions reference feminist film theory, particularly Laura Mulvey's work on the male gaze. Experts note that the 'female gaze' is often misunderstood, emphasizing subjectivity over mere objectification. They argue that 'hard-body gaze' is more fitting for 'Toxic,' and that a woman director doesn't inherently create a female gaze.
Filmmakers and critics suggest that objectification can stem from anyone holding the camera, influenced by patriarchal norms rather than gender alone. The commercial aspects of cinema, including producers and market expectations, also shape visual narratives.
Further analysis draws parallels to caste and class in the Indian context, asserting that gaze is not solely a gendered category. The conversation extends to queer perspectives, advocating for a broader understanding of gaze that encompasses diverse human experiences beyond traditional binaries.
