New masculinity in Film

Jason Segel in 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall'

The lectures on masculinity have made me think more about the more recent representations of masculinity in film, and the contrast to those we looked at in class, such as Brad Pitt in 'Thelma and Louise' and male representation in 'Brokeback Mountain'.

Lately films such as the romcom 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall', are representing men in a new light. As a natural more realistic representation. One of the last taboos in mainstream cinema to represent a man a pathetic and laughable especially because his naked body is obviously doughy and pallid. These more common representations of realistic masculinity identity are becoming more taboo in modern cinema, with other films such as 'Couples Retreat', 'Knocked Up', 'Superbad' and 'Juno' displaying and obvious devoid of sexual intent.

I guess representation of masculinity in film has had to take a break from the male pin-up's since Julian in 'American Gigolo', as the modern demographic needs to relate to a more realistic interpretation of masculine identity.

These more recent box-office stars of today's romantic comedies and comedies are goofy schlubs and nerds, that are appealing to today's male and female demographic. Actors such as Jason Segel, Seth Rogen, Michael Cera, and Jonah Hill now define the paradigm of Hollywood romantic lead.