Final girl

Final Girl is a trope commonly found in horror films, particularly within the slasher film subgenre, that refers to the last woman alive to confront the antagonist, typically surviving to tell the tale. The concept of the Final Girl was first introduced by Carol J. Clover in her 1992 book Men, Women, and Chain Saws: Gender in the Modern Horror Film. Clover's analysis of the trope has led to a significant body of academic discussion on gender representation in horror cinema.

Characteristics

The Final Girl is characterized by her moral superiority, intelligence, and often a shared history with the killer. She is usually more developed as a character than other victims, making her survival satisfying for the audience. The Final Girl often undergoes a transformation, becoming a survivor rather than a victim through her confrontation with the killer. This confrontation is frequently depicted as a form of catharsis for the audience.

Origins and Evolution

The trope has its roots in early horror films but was solidified as a concept in the 1970s and 1980s with the rise of slasher films. Early examples include Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) in Halloween (1978) and Sally Hardesty (Marilyn Burns) in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974). Over time, the Final Girl trope has evolved, with some films offering a postmodern take on the concept, such as Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) in the Scream series, who is aware of horror film clichés and uses this knowledge to survive.

Criticism and Analysis

While the Final Girl trope has been praised for highlighting strong female characters, it has also been criticized for reinforcing traditional gender roles and the objectification of women. Critics argue that the Final Girl's survival is often due to her conformity to traditional feminine virtues and that her final confrontation with the killer is laden with sexual overtones. Furthermore, the trope has been analyzed in the context of the male gaze, with the Final Girl often subjected to the voyeuristic tendencies of the camera.

Impact on Popular Culture

The Final Girl trope has had a significant impact on popular culture, influencing not only horror films but also television, literature, and video games. It has become a recognizable and often expected element in horror media, with audiences anticipating which character will fulfill the role. The trope has also inspired feminist reinterpretations and parodies, highlighting its flexibility and enduring relevance in discussions about gender and horror.

See Also

• Slasher film
• Horror film
• Carol J. Clover
• Gender in film

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