Sexism & the Star System:

It’s Not Just Architecture

Brown perspective on the sexism and star system within architecture is significant and powerful; alas, other industries face similar challenges that limit opportunity and keep the present (largely irrational) criteria for power unchanged. One job in particular perpetrates these notions: directing. When asked to think of famous directors, I can conjure a list easily: Martin Scorsese, Pete Berg, Michael Bay, Spielberg, Hitchcock, Del Toro, Anderson, etc. There is certainly a ‘mighty group’ within directing. A group with supposed intangible panache, unteachable expertise, and the x-factor that guru-izes them. And, they’re all men.

There exist “reasons” for that final observation: “You have to be a dick to be a director”, “You can’t be agreeable”, “Assertiveness is key”. Ultimately, these claims end with the argument, “and therefore, most women can’t do it”. There exists this belief (by some in society) that women are either agreeable, or a bitch. Naturally, it’s a lose-lose; if you’re agreeable as a director you get pushed around and if you’re a bitch then no one will follow you. Clearly, something needs to change. While there is certainly a need for assertive within a director role, it’s a fallacy that women can’t provide that. It will take a societal reevaluation of the stereotypes of women to rewire people into understanding that either gender can fill that assertive, but respectful (and dignified) role of director.

Of course, there exist successful female directors: Greta Gerwig, Kathryn Bigelow, Ava Duvernay, etc. However, still, the disparity in representation between men and women is large. Only 8% of the 250 highest grossing films of 2019 were directed by women, and only 4% within the top 100. Highest grossing films isn’t the best statistic for this, but it shows my point. Likely, this number will grow over time. As more females become successful directors, there will be more role models for young women to shape themselves after. This will have multiplying effect and we can see it in action today. However, our work isn’t close to done. Until equality of opportunity is reached (both legally and socially) then we should remain diligent in helping people understand the negative effects of their stereotypes and biases.