Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

Challenging Stereotype in Marriage and Societal System from a Film Analysis of Anatomy of a Fall

Qi QiShang Hai Qibao Dwight High School* Yufei HuangGuanghua Cambridge International School Ziming ChaiNingbo Foreign Language School

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

The essay explores how to deconstruct gender stereotypes by looking at gender representations in marriage and the juridical system through a film analysis of Anatomy of a Fall. The film won the Palme d'Or award at the 76th Cannes Film Festival in 2023; it narrates the female protagonist Sandra's denial of the accusation of murdering her husband and the reclamation of her subjectivity in the trial. The aim of the article is to expose the film’s subversive representation of gender roles as intertwined with Sandra breaking the traditional binary gender stereotypes prescribed by patriarchal society. The essay uses a contextual analysis approach, by analyzing the films’ cinematic elements, such as narrative structure, cinematography, and editing. Besides, the essay also draws thearetical insight from Laura Mulvey and Beauvoir. The first finding of the essay is that the representation of the juridical system symbolizes the societal power system, which reinforces the stereotypes towards women; the second finding is that Sandra shows women’s the refusal of male gaze and gender performativity. This essay elucidates how Anatomy of a Fall effectively subverts gender stereotypes, contributing to a nuanced understanding of power dynamics and gender roles in western society. Furthermore, its significance underscores the film's approach to challenge the entrenched societal norms and promote feminist ideals.

Keywords: gender stereotypes; subjectivity; feminism; gender performativity; gender role
Published: June 9, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2024.23624
Volume: CHR Vol.70
pp. 209-220
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