Megan Sullivan-- Core Response #4

 In chapter Star Bodies and Performance, Dyer calls to attention Dryan S. Turner’s concept of a ‘somatic society’ as a lens for understanding how the body is connected with modern social and political issues. This concept allows us to consider bodies as not simply an individual being, but a part of a larger and interconnected society. Specifically, Dyer uses action films as a way of exemplifying this idea, as action heroes often exhibit their large muscles and strength which in some way serves as a main point in the story. However, Dyer maintains that this is one type of body represented in one type of film, and other types of bodies represent different cultural complexities in other genres. 

When looking at star bodies, Dyer suggests that you also have to look at their performance to understand how subtle bodily actions have a significant impact on broader themes and messages in the film regarding the body and sexuality. The small, minute actions such as mannerisms, facial expressions, intonations, and body language contribute to the larger star body. Some of the actions are recognizable in the public sphere and cross over to the film and television space. For example, if a star has a unique or recognizable tone or accent to their voice, they may be recognized in a film or television show for their star body even when portraying a character that is not themself. 

These small mannerisms and expressions can be used to represent broader cultural ideologies through the star body. For example, Dyer uses Jodi Foster’s character of Clarice in the film Silence of the Lambs to demonstrate how small actions of the body can exemplify distinctions in gender characterizations. The film opens with Clarice running in the training camp. Specific characteristics of her sweaty hair, running pace, and gritted facial expression portray a characterization of perseverance in male dominated environments, which remains a theme throughout the entire film (Dyer). Thus, if we are to understand how the star body functions in society we must think about, first, how star bodies are not simply individual beings, but part of a larger and interconnected society, and, secondly, how the performance of a star works to construct or deconstruct ideologies.