07. Cowboys & Superheroes
We've been discussing the evolution of American masculinity and using John Wayne's image as a reference point. With that information in hand, I want you to see out at least one example of a modern version of the John Wayne "passionate manhood" image from a TV show or a film. First, describe the show and character in question so that I can get a good mental picture of your choice; then, explain why the character in question fits the mold of the John Wayne type.
I am a sucker for superhero movies. My dad and I often waste a Saturday parked in front of the TV to rewatch the familiar stories. Because of course we saw the movies when they came out in theaters. Maybe I love the genre for the same reason I love procedural TV: the formulaic structure and definitive ending are media kryptonite to me. Is that too on the nose?
I have seen discourse on the internet about superhero movies potentially being the new Western. Focusing solely on the characters, it seems the two genres have overlap. Pictured are some of my favorite supers. They are tortured, ambitious, and often morally grey. They are fit, hot, and strong. These characters both protect their communities and rely on their support for success. Sound familiar?
“Genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist.”
For the sake of the prompt, I will dissect the character of Tony Stark, or Iron Man, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, because he is my #1, all-time favorite. He is witty, charismatic, blunt, brilliant, and cocky.
I have not read any of the comics, so I am focusing on the movie portrayals. Spoilers ahead, but the movies have been out for nearly 20 years and Tony Stark is a pop culture icon. Get with the program. In Iron Man I, Tony is a brazen playboy billionaire dealing in weapons manufacturing/defense contracts through his world-renown company Stark Industries. The first movie tells the story of Iron Man’s creation. Stark was abducted by a terrorist group who demands Stark construct his newest, deadliest weapon for them. During the abduction ambush, Stark is injured with shrapnel in his chest almost piercing his heart. He is saved by a fellow captive, and against all odds, the genius creates the Iron Man suit and breaks free. This is his first shift into the Iron Man.
Pepper Potts, Stark’s love interest, teases Tony in Iron Man that he truly does have a heart. And it’s true, he does. Tony has the right intentions but must learn, often the hard way, how to execute his plans. Tony’s character wrestles with his contrasting identities throughout his appearances in the films - the “passionate manhood” of Tony Stark and the empathetic Iron Man.
The thing about Tony Stark is the audience grows to love him throughout his standalone and team-up films. Ironically, the Iron Man suit humanizes him. He learns selflessness, empathy, and teamwork. Yet, he is still defined by classic characteristics of the John Wayne “passionate manhood” image with his physicality, ambition, and toughness. It must be noted that Tony learns he and the Iron Man simultaneously exist. He is both selfless and brash, tough and interdependent. In Avengers: Endgame, Tony has a daughter, solves time travel, and saves the universe. The ultimate display of his character development is in the same film when Tony, not Iron Man, sacrifices himself. It is proven that Tony Stark has a heart.
Madeline’s Weekly Favorites
In no particular order and for no particular reason.
One of my favorite shows of all time!
