SUPERCURRICULAR

My Summary of Goodwin and Dyer’s Theories 

Andrew Goodwin’s Music Video Theory

Andrew Goodwin’s explains how music videos are constructed to promote both the song and the artist. He argues that music videos often show a clear relationship between the lyrics and visuals, where the images either illustrate, amplify, or sometimes contradict the lyrics. Similarly, there is usually a connection between the music and the visuals, such as fast cuts matching a fast rhythm. Goodwin also suggests that music videos rely on genre conventions, meaning certain visual styles, themes, and performance techniques are repeated so audiences can easily recognise the genre. Another key idea is the frequent use of close-ups of the artist, which helps build a recognisable image and strengthens the artist–audience relationship. Finally, Goodwin highlights the concept of voyeurism, where the camera invites the audience to look at the artist in an intimate or objectifying way, reinforcing the idea that music videos are carefully constructed promotional tools.

Richard Dyer’s Star Theory
Richard Dyer’s Star Theory focuses on how celebrities are constructed by the media rather than being naturally “real.” Dyer argues that stars are manufactured through a combination of their music, performances, social media presence, interviews, and music videos. A key idea of his theory is that stars are presented as both ordinary and extraordinary at the same time: they appear relatable and human, yet also aspirational and glamorous. This helps audiences feel connected to the star while still admiring them. Dyer also suggests that stars represent specific ideologies and values, such as youth, rebellion, success, which reflect cultural contexts and beliefs. He shows that a star’s image is a carefully controlled product designed to appeal to audiences and generate profit.

Is Barbie a Feminist Film?

As part of my super curricular studies, i read the article “Is Barbie a feminist film?”. This article discussed how the Barbie movie attempts to critique the patriarchy through Barbie’s journey from an objectified, idealised doll to a human woman, yet still reinforces traditional beauty standards shaped by the influence of the male gaze and white Western ideals. 

It questions why Barbie chooses to leave Barbie Land, where she has all the power, for the real world, where she seems to have very little. Thus suggesting, that the narrative implies women must accept a world where they lack power in order to appear “real.” 

Although the film appears feminist, the article argues that it’s message is limited by commercial interests, , especially Mattel’s involvement, and that its feminist idea are simplified for mainstream audiences through humour. 

From this, i learned that feminist representation can sometimes reproduce the inequalities it tried to challenge, and that media texts balance social messages with commercial messages. 

I can link this to my studies through feminist theories such as Mulvey’s male gaze and bell hooks’ ideas on beauty standards, also through the complexity of representation showing how mainstream media can adhere to and critique traditional dominant power structures.

Shelter’s 2025 Christmas Appeal  

As part of my super curricular studies on the Shelter organisation, i watched a few of their videos and decided to write about the 2025 Christmas Appeal because it draws attention to the growing issue of homelessness during a time usually associated with family, comfort and celebration. By contrasting the warmth of Christmas with the harsh reality faced by thousands without a secure home, the campaign highlights the inequality of today’s society. 

Shelter’s video focuses on very realistic people, thus encouraging the audience to actively empathise with them rather than passively observing the problem which therefore encourages them to take on responsibility and do something to help. 

I think the appeal reflects altruism and pro-social behaviour because it invites people to help the cause with no personal reward. Through donations, volunteering and raising awareness, the campaign tells the audience to care and support those who are vulnerable. The advert shows how media can inspire not just attention, but real social change. 

Clay Shirky Extra Research