A Study on the exploration of gender identity through art and costume in the movie ‘The Danish Girl’

Abstract

Movie has a social impact. There are several studies proved that the existence of a reciprocal relationship between the movie and the reality. Movies reflects reality and also an individuals’ perception can also be effected through the movies, Hence this research is an attempt to study the spectrum of gender and not the binary biological sex of a person through the life of Einar and Lili portrayed in the movie “The Danish Girl.” This study is set to focus on the different realms of gender and identity. The purpose is to be able to differentiate the two in order to come at a limited conclusion. As mentioned above, the concept of gender identity is constantly evolving and in such a scenario, it is important to analyze the presentation and representation of the same in the visual space. It is imperative to capture the realities and subtleties of gender identities being portrayed, covering the attitude of the characters present and comparing it to the present reality. The Danish Girl gives an insight into the mind and life of Einar and his transition from a man to a woman named Lili through art and costumes. His journey in finding his identity is depicted through both Einar’s and Gerda’s paintings.