Under Construction: The Female Gaze in Women Director’s Film

Abstract

Film or cinema is known as a powerful medium of communication across the world. As a result, the discussion of gender issues related to men and women in films has come up in various studies. The construction of women in the language of men in a patriarchal society results in women being seen in commercial films as neglected, omnipotent, male-dominated entities; Commodification of women is also noticeable in most cases. Because of this, it is not easy to find stories that glorify women and embody their power on the film screen. Several women filmmakers are working in the film world of Bangladesh. Therefore, it is important to see how the representation of women, women's aspirations, personal freedom, economic freedom and contribution are being highlighted in the films of domestic women producers. To find the self-identity of female characters, it is necessary to research the female gaze in films by women filmmakers. In this study the film Under Construction directed by Rubaiyat Hossain has been selected through purposive sampling using qualitative research method. Then the data obtained through the method of representation. This study shows that women have been searching for their identity in society for ages. The matter is still in process, women also want to stand tall as human beings but women are not able to come out easily from the enclosure of patriarchy. Modern day women are being stifled by tactics and cannot move forward without male support. Along with this, the trend of hindering the advancement of women by being a woman has also been observed. Women's struggle for economic independence and personal freedom continues under the control of men.