Mainstream media representations of masculinity play a role in shaping attitudes and ideas about what it means to be a “real” man in our society. In most media portrayals, male characters are rewarded for self-control and the control of others, aggression and violence, financial independence, and physical desirability. Many characteristics of the alpha stereotype are demonstrated through the character of David Greene who is played by Brenden Fraser in the movie School Ties (1992), directed by Robert Mandel. As the film progresses, Mandel creatively applied several narrative, symbolic and technical elements into representing David’s masculinity. The three most dominant qualities which sum up David’s representation of masculinity is his sportsmanlike attitude, uncontrolled emotions and the values he develops through mistakes.
As a superstar quarterback given a scholarship to a very prestigious school, David …show more content…
However, he also includes filmic effects to represent David as a complex character. As a movie targeted at teenagers, School Ties heavily foregrounds the common, schoolyard type of alpha male. David’s character both supports and develops this main theme of preferred masculinity in the film by being a general all-round nice bloke. He demonstrates key characteristics of the stereotype, while also giving complexity to Greene’s personality. This falls into congruence with the evolved version of what it is to be masculine in today’s society. No longer is it acceptable that the assertive alpha male seen as self-centred, rather, they are developing into a man with good principles and morals and have the right attitude towards life in general. In conclusion, Mandel has successfully been able to communicate the message that masculinity is not based on stereotypical views but the way one is able to conduct himself and show respect to
As a superstar quarterback given a scholarship to a very prestigious school, David …show more content…
However, he also includes filmic effects to represent David as a complex character. As a movie targeted at teenagers, School Ties heavily foregrounds the common, schoolyard type of alpha male. David’s character both supports and develops this main theme of preferred masculinity in the film by being a general all-round nice bloke. He demonstrates key characteristics of the stereotype, while also giving complexity to Greene’s personality. This falls into congruence with the evolved version of what it is to be masculine in today’s society. No longer is it acceptable that the assertive alpha male seen as self-centred, rather, they are developing into a man with good principles and morals and have the right attitude towards life in general. In conclusion, Mandel has successfully been able to communicate the message that masculinity is not based on stereotypical views but the way one is able to conduct himself and show respect to