Representation
Media Studies: Eduqas GCSE, topic 5.3.3
'The Man' - Representation
Taylor Swift constructs the character of 'the Man' to critique misogyny. The video highlights gender inequality by contrasting male privilege with women’s lack of recognition and agency.
Mise-en-scène and media messages
- Everyday settings such as the subway, office, and park symbolise the everyday sexism faced by women.
- 'The Man'’s dominance in the frame visually reinforces the power imbalance that the video is critiquing.
- Women on the yacht all wear identical yellow bikinis, removing individuality and highlighting objectification.
- A time shift of 58 years in the tennis scene exaggerates the trope of older men pairing with younger women.
Intertextual casting
- 'The Man'’s voice is performed by Dwayne Johnson, a Hollywood star known for portraying hypermasculine roles.
- His involvement reinforces the critique of male stereotypes and adds an intertextual layer for audiences who recognise him.
Test yourself on Representation
What is the main purpose of the character of ‘the Man’ in the music video?
What does Swift’s appearance as director at the end emphasise?