Feminist Film Analysis

“I would argue that feminist film studies is not only still alive and well, but has, in fact, become much more heterogeneous, dynamic, and open in its scope, encompassing not just film analysis but also television and new media studies…” says Karen Hollinger from Feminist Film Studies (Hollinger 19). Film’s have definitely grown and expanded from the years pass. Women are now starting to be given roles other than those to please the male eye such as the girlfriend, secretary, receptionist, or mother. The 2016 version of Ghostbusters, directed by Paul Feig is a great example of that. Ghostbusters (2016) shows four hard working and successful women saving the world from paranormal destruction, without trying to please the male eye. This film
Most action movies, like in the original 1984 Ghostbusters have male leads. This movie not only has one female lead but four. Most non feminist movies cast an attractive female actress to play the part of the naïve receptionist or assistant. The 2016 Ghostbusters, however, casts the very attractive Chris Hemsworth to play the role of the receptionist Kevin. Kevin is not the smartest and doesn’t even do his job right. He leaves work to play “hide-and-seek”, fails to answer the phone/ pick up the phone, and doesn’t even know that the women hunt ghosts. The four women all hit on him and recognize how good looking his but also agree that he is dumb. He got the job because they all, especially Erin, thought he was hot. Erin even introduces herself to Kevin by saying, “Kevin? That's a manly name! My name's Erin. With an E... for Every... thing you
Erin did have a fling with a fellow professor at the beginning of the film but forgets about him when she starts saving the world. Most films today, may give women lead roles, but they place them as the wife, mother, or make them fall for a fellow male character. It is very refreshing to be able to view a film of women being the heroes and not getting distracted my men.
Feminist film’s portray women with greater light and give them a bigger purpose. Ghostbusters does this one hundred percent. It is very entertaining and humorous without making any of the women the butt of a joke. In fact the film makers added the male receptionist, Kevin, for more comical relief. It is very common to hear comments such as this one made by Abby, “I will kick the unliving crap out of you, and you.....and especially you!” Abby, Erin, Patty, and Jillian are presented as tough, strong, independent women who are not afraid to get dirty and kick