Objectification of Modern Media: ELITE

Abstract

Modern media has been acclaimed as one of the most influential ways to get across various messages to its viewers. With the continuous evolution of technology, popular media has become widespread, shining light on important issues. Although this evolution has been accompanied by many changes, stereotypes regarding women have remained constant. Many shows and series have tried to challenge traditional gender roles, such as an “independent” female protagonist in a traditionally “male” industry or a male character exhibiting many “feminine” traits. Although these depictions are a departure from traditional concepts of gender, most modern shows fail to meaningfully develop and showcase their portrayal of different genders. ELITE, a popular series on Netflix, is one show that continues to showcase numerous examples of gender stereotypes. Officially launched on Netflix on October 5th of 2018, the first season of this Spanish show has been viewed by no fewer than 20,000,000 viewers. ELITE centers around three working-class teenagers struggling to survive in a prestigious school in Spain, a poignant critique of classism pervading the campus. At the same time, signs of different types of objectification are specifically directed towards female characters. In order to explore the ways this show objectifies women, I analyzed how the characters’ actions, along with different film techniques, clearly show objectification throughout the film. How does the Netflix show, ELITE, objectify women and girls and rely on stereotypes? How does the objectification in the series reinforce sexist behaviors among its viewers?