Growing Old With the Films: The Case of Clint Eastwood Cover Image

Starzejąc się z filmami – przypadek Clinta Eastwooda
Growing Old With the Films: The Case of Clint Eastwood

Author(s): Aleksander Cywiński
Subject(s): Gerontology, Film / Cinema / Cinematography, Sociology of Art
Published by: Uniwersytet Ignatianum w Krakowie
Keywords: old age; film; Clint Eastwood; popular culture; justice;

Summary/Abstract: Old age is one of the main themes in cultural discourse, which is present in literature, art and music. In this context, this article analyzes representations of old age in the works of Clint Eastwood, an outstanding American actor and director. Feature films significantly impact society by shaping people’s thinking, decisions and behavior. They promote values, social norms, traditions and customs, but also portray current cultural, social, economic and political issues. Films can influence the perceptions of different social groups, inspire people to pursue their goals, change their lives or help others. Their analysis reveals the dark side of the aging process and “anti-aging” practices. Eastwood’s work over the past 30 years as a director, producer and actor has contributed significantly to the fight against negative stereotypes associated with the aging process. Aging in public during his film career, Eastwood has become an informal spokesman for a positive image of old age, by portraying this stage of life as a period to which a person aspires throughout his life. An analysis of the stories in his films shows the monumentality of the aging process that is unprecedented in cinematic history. Eastwood’s films are dominated by the theme of fighting against the injustice of the world, which seems to gain particular importance in the context of responsibility to one’s loved ones.

  • Issue Year: 26/2023
  • Issue No: 3
  • Page Range: 95-111
  • Page Count: 17
  • Language: Polish