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Action Stars and their masculinity

Masculinity takes different forms, but one of the most visual representations comes through body type. Genres such as action films capitalize on the meaning associated with big, muscular bodies of the stereotypical hero. Arnold Schwarzenegger is a classic embodiment of this idea in the Terminator films. His physicality alone establishes a narrative. While he towers over the average person, muscles bulging, it is an “assertive and confident declaration of masculinity, which naturalizes male physical power” as Yvonne Tasker explains (Dyer 180). Before even knowing his role in Terminator 2, through his introduction alone, the audience is already conscious that Schwarzenegger will either be the protector or enemy. But either way, due to his brute strength, he will succeed in his role.

However, the roles of the overly masculine star does not often lend itself to an extremely complex character. In Terminator 2, that is clear as Schwarzenegger as The Terminator is robotic in both his action and diction, and is programmed to do as John Connor (Edward Furlong) says. Even though he is playing a robot, he starkly contrasts the T-1000 (Robert Patrick) who is less physically strong but possesses wit and intelligence. But the purpose of the action star is not to be both the brains and the brute. They are there for their strength, and in Schwarzenegger’s case, strength alone. 

Yet despite action stars lack of narrative complexity, as Dyer points out, they do help create a commentary on society. They “embody culture” rather than discuss it (Dyer 182). Since action films are “genre of the body” they explore society’s idealized image of body types (182). Where action stars like Schwarzenegger are expected to be extremely muscular if they are to convince the audience that they can succeed in their task, since they cannot rely on their intelligence. 

Additionally, unlike other genres, action films allow for cultural diversity in the depiction of their heroes. Where one might expect an attractive white male as a leading man in a drama. Action films, while slightly conforming to racial presumptions, does lead to a greater range of ethnicity to be depicted. From Austrian Schwarzenegger, and Dwayne Johnson who is of Samoan and Black Nova Scotian descent, to Jason Momoa who is Hawaiian, German and Irish. These stars use their physicality to earn their action hero roles. But Schwarzenegger in particular has been criticized for using his muscles in lieu of unique characterization, and simply plays himself within the context of a film, as his “’personification’ foregrounds the continuities of the star’s image over and above differences of character” (Dyer 185).