Write 500 words on the representation of a character/collective identity of your choice. You must take a theoretical approach to it, referencing media theory and utilising your media terminology.
I've chosen to look at the hero, more specifically, the superhero.
The superhero is undoubtably an aspect of our modern culture that has branched out in all sorts of ways. Superheroes are icons, idols, symbols of hope, patriotism, not to mention they are dominating every type of media text, most notably film.
On average, how many superhero films are released to cinemas every year? Usually, five. Five big-budgeted, epic superhero blockbusters dominate the cinema every year, be it the Man of Steel, The Avengers, or The Amazing Spiderman, it's clear to see that audiences can't get enough of supers. Why? Why is that? Superheroes are icons. They are representative of greater things. Superheroes can be an incredibly patriotic thing. Look at the ending to the trailer for the 2002 film Spiderman.
Look at Spiderman. Gosh, what an American icon. God bless America!
Spiderman, being released in 2002 was struck by the trauma of the 2001 attacks on the World Trade Centre. Which is exceptionally unfortunate these teaser trailers for Spiderman being released before the events of 9/11.
Incredibly creative use of the towers. But good golly, post-9/11, vastly distasteful.
But we shan't talk about that.
Previous controversy aside, the point is, Spiderman became a symbol of hope for the distressed society of America, post-9/11. The audience needed to see a symbol of hope, the audience needed a hero to glorify America after the shock of 9/11.
Of course, they revisited the American-flag motif in the third film in the trilogy, pandering to the American people. Symbol of Hope, exclusively for Americans. Because who doesn't want a nation-specific hero?
I rest my case.
May I take some time to talk to you about our personal lord and saviour: Superman?
Other-worldly father, with other worldly powers, sacrificing himself for the betterment of humanity? The Church should sue on grounds of copyright infringement. And with imagery like this:
The portrayal of Superman, in Zach Snyder's 2014 film Man of Steel is laden with Jesus analogies.
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