Richard Dyer star theory

• stars are constructed images- manufactured, mediated and the image of a star is controlled quite heavily
• dyer adopts a system by which film stars can be assigned to a particular star archetype- eg Taylor Swift- 'the independent woman'
• dyer says stars are constructed images-
• stars are constructed images- where and how do stars construct their images?, how do they control and manipulate/project this image?
• manufactured- taylor swift social media etc/ appearances at red carpets/awards ceremonies in makeup
• manufactured images, paradoxes of stars, social and cultural significance, stars as products
• dyer's star theory offers a critical perspective on celebrity culture, it helps us understand how stars are manufactured and the role they play in media and society
• manufactured images- Dyer argues celebrities, or stars, are not just their authentic selves, their image is carefully crafted by media institutions like film studios or music labels, this image is designed to be appealing and marketable to a target audience
• paradoxes of stars- Dyer proposes that stars embody contradictions, they are presented as both relatable and extraordinary, for example, a star might appear glamorous and wealthy, yet down to earth and just like us. This paradox helps audiences connect with them on an emotional level.
• Star theory applied to Taylor Swift- paradox, relatable as showing her dad on instagram
• social and cultural significance- stars do not exist in a vacuum without any effect on the real world, Dyer suggests they reflect and influence social and cultural values, They can embody ideals of beauty, success or rebellion, shaping how audiences perceive themselves and the world around them,
• examples of social and cultural significance for Taylor Swift- The Man music video critiquing the patriarchy
• stars as products- ultimately, dyer argues, stars function like products or commodities within media industry, created to generate profits, be it through movies, albums or endorsements