Have you ever wondered why certain individuals rise to global stardom? How their public personas impact societal norms? From the timeless allure of Marilyn Monroe to the ground-breaking artistry of Beyoncé, these stars not only entertain us, but their legacies also embody complex cultural narratives and influence our collective imaginations. Delve deeper into these fascinating dynamics in THFL 226: Celebrity Studies, with Associate Professor Mila Zuo.
Below are just five of the celebs you’ll critically analyze through key films and media texts:
1. Marilyn Monroe
Born in 1926, Marilyn Monroe was an American actress and model, known for playing comic “blonde bombshell” characters. Fans were also fascinated by her personal life and celebrity marriages. Marilyn’s alluring look, breathy voice, and glamorous style made her into a quintessential American icon. Examine and analyze Marilyn’s appeal and stardom in a screening of Billy Wilder’s 1959 classic, Some Like it Hot.
2. Beyoncé
Need we say more? Dive into Queen Bey’s presence and artistry through the visual to her album, Lemonade (2016)—more narrative film than music video featuring poetic prose describing heartbreak.
3. Gong Li
One of China’s most famous movie stars, Gong Li has starred in three of the four Chinese-language films that have been nominated for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film. She was also the first Chinese actress featured on the cover of Time Magazine. Discover Gong Li through the Grand Prix award-winning film, To Live.
4. Shah Rukh Khan
Referred to in the media as the “Baadshah of Bollywood” and “King Khan,” Shah Rukh Khan (SRK) is an Indian actor and producer who has appeared in over 100 films. Examine how SRK has redefined masculinity in Bollywood through the film Om Shanti Om.
5. Leslie Cheung
Known as the “King of Canto-pop,” Leslie Cheung was a Hong Kong actor and singer. One of the most influential icons in the Chinese world, Leslie was also an LGBTQ+ pioneer at a time when many stars were not open about their identities. Watch Happy Together, often regarded as one of the greatest LGBTQ+ films of all time, to study Leslie’s legendary performance.
THFL 226 runs on Tuesdays, 10 am – 1 pm and Thursdays, 10 am – 11 am, during 2024W Term 1.
