Western films throughout the history of cinema have consolidated a traditional view of masculinity. They often feature strong, courageous, heterosexual heroes, reflecting a stereotypical notion of virility. This restricted representation of masculinity contributes to heteronormativity, creating an environment where gay or bisexual characters rarely find space to exist.
However, the filmography of Pedro Almodóvar, a Spanish director known for his innovative and provocative works, challenges these conventions of gender and sexuality. Almodóvar often creates complex male characters who explore a wide range of sexual experiences and orientations.
This diverse approach by Almodóvar contrasts sharply with the lack of representation of gay men in Western films, highlighting the importance of offering varied and inclusive narratives in cinema. Almodóvar demonstrates how cinematic art can be a platform for exploring the diversity of masculinity and, in doing so, contributes to a more complete and authentic representation.
Strange Way of Life, directed by Pedro Almodóvar and produced by his brother, Augustin premiered this year (2023) in Cannes and brought attention beyond western heteronormativity. Starring Ethan Hawke and Pedro Pascal, the film, whose costumes were designed by Anthony Vaccarello, also had Saint Laurent as associate producer.
With 31 minutes, it incorporates the world of fashion by having costumes that say that the brand not only works with fine clothes like the suits and shirts that we see the sheriff and the cowboy wearing, but also makes casual clothes like jackets. Would it be a catalog from Saint Laurent itself or would it be a cinephile political act that says that the western is for everyone? Or more than that; Would it be an opening the way for short and medium-length films to be shown on the commercial circuit as well as at major festivals?
You can find Strange Way of life on the cinema and on 20th October on Mubi.
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