Mulvey's 'Male Gaze Theory

Laura Mulvey; born 15th August 1941, is famous for her her theoretical research into the art of film; particularly her studies into the theory of 'Male Gaze'. The male gaze theory depicts objectification of women that appeal to the sexual attractions of the male species. Within this theory, she outlines that objectification of women can come in many forms; such as fragmentation shots that show off promiscuous features of the female body, lingering on the curves of an attractive women. In all instances of the male gaze, the audience is positioned in the perspective of a heterosexual male. Women are displayed as being sexual objects; both for the characters within the film, and the audience watching. This is one reason for the concept being adopted within feministic film, media studies, as well as cultural and photography studies. The theory promotes a sense of patriarchalism within the film industry, outlining that because the film industry is male-dominated, representation of women is presented in a misogynistic light. The male gaze phrase originates from her 1975 essay; titled 'Visual Pleasure and Narrative Cinema'.