Introduction
Various local OTT platforms (such as ALT Balaji and MX player) in India boast high viewership figures for mature content—a genre that is witnessing heavy investment and is slated to grow further. In a society that has historically shied away from overt or explicit depictions of sex, is the growth in easily accessible adult content a sign of normalising conversations around sex, or a further reinforcement of regressive gender norms? Does it indicate sexual liberation or a double-down on taboos? Has the male gaze shifted at all?
One particular point of contention related to this has been visual media’s role in depicting gender and sexuality—specifically the portrayal of women. This is especially evident in content that has sexual undertones, in particular, pornography and erotica. Various feminist authors argue that female depictions reinforce archaic stereotypes such as, being weak and sexually submissive, which is measured mostly by physical beauty and appearance. Such characterisations play into stereotypes and, in effect, do not create critical friction required to further the feminist cause.
Thereby making it difficult to drive contemporary female narratives. With the rise of local and global OTT platforms, there has been a significant increase in the production as well as consumption of mature content. In order to truly understand its role and impact, it is important to place it in the context of other forms of media, as well as understand what it is truly depicting. Is it taking us forward or backward when it comes to conversations on gender and sexuality?
Why do web series objectify women in the first place?
Web series, like other forms of media, can objectify women for a variety of reasons, including cultural and historical factors, the influence of the male gaze, and the profit-driven nature of the entertainment industry.
One factor is the historical context of the entertainment industry, which has a long history of objectifying women in order to appeal to male audiences. This objectification can take the form of sexualization, objectification, and the use of harmful stereotypes.
Another factor is the influence of the "male gaze," which refers to the way in which media is often created from a male perspective, with the camera and narrative designed to cater to a male audience. This can result in the sexualization and objectification of women, as they are often portrayed in ways that cater to male fantasies and desires.
Finally, the profit-driven nature of the entertainment industry can also contribute to the objectification of women in web series. Many media companies prioritize profit over social responsibility, which can result in the creation of content that objectifies women in order to attract viewers and generate revenue.
From the portrayal of female characters to the use of camera angles and framing, OTT platforms objectify women in several ways
One way in which web series objectify women is through the portrayal of female characters. Women are often depicted as one-dimensional characters whose sole purpose is to serve as love interests or sexual objects for male characters. They may be dressed in revealing clothing or engage in sexual behavior solely for the purpose of titillating male viewers.
Another way in which web series objectify women is through the use of camera angles and framing. Shots may be framed to emphasize a woman's body or sexualize her in a way that is not necessary to the plot. This can include shots of a woman's breasts, legs, or buttocks, or shots that linger on her body for an extended period of time.
The presentation of sexual content can also contribute to the objectification of women in web series. Sexual encounters may be depicted in a way that prioritizes male pleasure and ignores female pleasure or consent. Women may be portrayed as passive recipients of male desire, rather than active participants with their own desires and agency.
Impact
There are several potential negative impacts of sexual content on OTT platforms on women. Firstly, sexual content on OTT platforms often portrays women in a stereotypical or objectifying manner, perpetuating harmful gender norms and expectations. Women may be depicted as sexual objects for the pleasure of male characters or the audience, and their agency and autonomy may be diminished or ignored.
Secondly, the normalization of sexual content on OTT platforms can contribute to a culture of sexualization, where women are valued primarily for their physical appearance and sexual appeal rather than their talents or achievements. This can lead to increased pressure on women to conform to unrealistic beauty standards and to engage in sexual behavior that they may not be comfortable with.
Thirdly, excessive exposure to sexual content on OTT platforms can lead to desensitization and normalization of sexual violence and harassment, which can have serious consequences for women's safety and well-being.
Finally, the over-representation of sexual content on OTT platforms can crowd out other representations of women in media, reducing opportunities for women to see themselves in diverse and empowering roles.
Conclusion
Overall, the impact of sexual content on OTT platforms on women highlights the need for media creators to be more thoughtful and responsible in their portrayal of gender and sexuality. It is also important for individuals to be critical consumers of media, and to seek out content that promotes healthy and respectful relationships between all genders. It is also important for viewers to be critical of the media they consume and to support media that represents women in a positive and inclusive way.
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