A woke hollywood: Gender-wokeness in Barbie (2023), Cinderella (2021), and Mulan (2020)

Abstract

This research explored the concept of gender-wokeness as represented in present-day Hollywood films, using a gynocritical lens to observe Mulan (2020), Barbie (2023), and Cinderella (2021). Gender-wokeness is defined as the acknowledgment of the unique, often unspoken, aspects of women’s identities and experiences, along with an inclusive recognition of gender fluidity. This study highlighted how these films portray women reclaiming their authentic selves by navigating societal expectations and the unknown “wild zone” of female identity. Mulan (2020) examined the unshackling of silenced female potential through Mulan’s acceptance of her chi, contrasted with Xianniang’s alienation for embracing hers. Barbie (2023) explored Barbie’s rejection of expected perfection and societal ideals, catalyzed by her interactions with Ken, to embrace a complex understanding of womanhood. Cinderella (2021) expanded this discourse by introducing Fab G, a gender-fluid character, as an expression of unique femininity and a symbolic female space helping Ella embrace her true female self. The findings revealed that gender-wokeness in these films encourages inclusivity and critiques the limited understanding of gender. By presenting diverse experiences, these films encourage audiences to rethink generalized perceptions of gender and embrace a deeper, never-spoken, authentic understanding of gender in contemporary movies. By providing an in-depth analysis of the relationship between films and wokeness, the study intends to add to ongoing discourses concerning gender studies and film studies.