Triangulation

Ageist Stereotypes in Film
Inequality in 900 Films

Furness, in her article (2016) for the telegraph, explores the consequences to health that a lack of positive representation induces. Without the elderly being provided with positive and diverse depictions of themselves, they are left with a “defeatist attitude” (Furness, 2016) which goes on to reaffirm the film industry’s ageist depiction of “frail old women”. The 2017 film study Inequality in 900 Popular Films reveals that the lowest percentage of women (below pubescent children) to be shown in a sexual light with nudity between 2007 and 2016 are women between the ages of 40 and 64. The infantilisation of elderly women by removing their sexual appeal devalues and reaffirms negative ideas of women’s health and desirability as they age which could be internalised.

Triangulation is a useful way to easily pull two sources together to give evidence to a larger idea. Above, I have used ideas about ageism and sexism to signify the importance of representation on multiple levels. I will develop my skill to connect multiple sources in order to advance my point fluidly in a way that is easy to follow.