‘Beautiful’ is not a Personality
Just had to stop and take a picture of this awful poster (above) for the film Funny People, and the wonderful graffiti that some admirable soul took the time to scribble on it (below).
I don’t think anyone would seriously stop and think “Hmm that particular character obviously has a beautiful personality, with a warm heart and a kind soul!” The message is clear; If you’re a woman, it’s all about ‘appearing’ rather than ‘doing’ or ‘being’.
Interesting how different it is from this poster for the same film (aimed at an American audience, maybe?). Why was the other female actress omitted from our version? Couldn’t they think of a suitable ‘personality’ to give her?!
By: Sarah Barnes, 16.11.2009 | Comments (3)Tagged: Advertising, Beauty, Feminism, Film, Funny People, graffiti, putting women in their place
November 16th, 2009
3:49 pm
Ah, I love to see a bit of feminist graffiti!
You are right about the message. This sort of advertising is typical of the “men do things, women have things done to them” attitude that society has. *sigh*
Currently I’m working on a set of feminist stickers that can be printed off onto typical 14-per-sheet office labels. It’s good to be prepared for these things!
November 17th, 2009
9:38 pm
That’s brilliant, Jennifer Ruth! Always love seeing a feminist sticker or scribble. I keep my digital camera handy every time I take the tube, plenty of rich pickings there… Hopefully I’ll spy one of your creations soon :)
February 18th, 2010
12:48 am
Jennifer, I must have these stickers! Although I am afraid that the temptation to just put them on people’s faces may be too much, I think I can hold out for billboards, etc.