Perspective - The male gaze: Laura Mulvey 'very gratified' her phrase has lasted so long
France 24
by Stuart NORVALFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Laura Mulvey, the British feminist film theorist who introduced the concept of the "male gaze" in her 1975 essay *Visual Pleasure and Narrative Cinema*, has expressed her delight at how her theory continues to resonate nearly five decades later. Speaking to FRANCE 24's *Perspective* show, Mulvey reflected on the lasting impact of her work, noting that the phrase "male gaze" has captured the popular imagination and found applications in various fields of art and culture. While her original essay focused on film studies, the idea has since expanded into broader conversations about gender representation, media, and cultural dynamics.
Mulvey acknowledged both the positive and negative changes her theories have inspired. On one hand, the concept has helped raise awareness about how men are often positioned as active controllers of visual narratives, while women are frequently objectified in media and art. This has led to important discussions about redefining representation to promote equality and inclusivity. On the other hand, she noted that her work has sometimes been misinterpreted or oversimplified, leading to debates about its application in contemporary contexts.
The relevance of Mulvey's theory remains significant in today's world, as it continues to shape conversations around gender, media, and art. Her ideas have influenced feminist movements, challenged traditional power structures in storytelling, and inspired new ways of thinking about representation in visual culture. AsMulvey herself remarked, the persistence of her phrase speaks to its enduring relevance in addressing issues of inequality and representation.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/19/2026