Research - Laura Mulvey's Theory On Representation

In a world controlled by sexual inequality, visual desires have been fulfilled by the division of there being dominant males and passive females who accept it. From a males view towards his fantasy is the sight of a female figure which has been presented accordingly.

The kind of representations of women that are expected to be found in some music videos (pop,hip-hop,etc) are half naked, show cleavage, highly exposed , tight clothes, eye contact with the camera(seductive looks) to draw attention to the male audience.

Genres:

- Pop         -Hip-Hop

- R&B        -Slow Jams

                                                                    Mary Mary 

 Mary Mary (sisters) are an American Gospel Duo. They, on the other hand, have presented themselves in a completely opposite way and challenge Mulvey's theory of how women present them selves in videos. This is mainly because they're music has a lot to do about real life matters and situations. They also seen as a duo who give inspiration through their music so the way they present themselves is not sexual in any form. They create the impression that as a woman you could still look beautiful without exposing yourself.

I do believe that Laura Mulvey’s theory on representation still stands as relevant in today’s society. From looking at some of the music videos being made now i have realised that it has become a common trend for some female artists, having a sexual appeal to the way they present themselves.

2 videos that illustrate this

Dizzee Rascal 

'Holiday'

The number of girls in this video us too much to count but from watching this video has created the impression that Dizzee Rascal had the idea of making his video overflow with the visual pleasure for a male's gaze (Less men, more women). All these women have presented themselves as sexually attractive to draw attention to the male audience as they wear their underwear.

Nelly

'Hot in here'

Similarly, this video by nelly involve women associate with men in a club. The is sexual movements, dancing and gestures within this video which may be seen as seductive toward the male audience.