The Role of the Outcast in Modern Cinema: A Persistent and Profitable Archetype

In her book Stiffed, Susan Faludi discusses a significant shift in attitudes post-World War II. The post-war era marked a transition from the collective hero of the war years to the solitary hero seen in contemporary films, such as superheroes, test pilots, and countless action heroes. This paradigm shift in heroism has influenced the modern film industry, making the outcast a notable and persistent character in films.

From Collective to Individual: The Transformation in Heroism

During World War II, the prominent heroic figure was the collective hero, representing a group effort against evil forces. The grunt soldier was a symbol of unity and teamwork, holding off the enemy alongside his fellow combatants.

Following the war, the narrative focus shifted to the individual hero. These characters exuded swagger, self-reliance, and an anti-establishment spirit. Figures like Flash Gordon, Superman, Chuck Yeager, and the astronauts in the The Right Stuff embody this new type of heroism, characterized by independence and a rebellious streak. This change in the heroic archetype is reflected in contemporary film, where the popular heroic figure is often someone who defies authority and operates outside of conventional hierarchies.

The Outcast Character in Contemporary Films

The outcast character in modern films often serves as a pivotal element. These characters are typically portrayed as being against a system, a structure, or a norm, and often-times, they are the protagonists. They are not just characters who stand against authority but also those who are outsiders or isolated from the main society, adding depth and conflict to the narrative.

Examples in Action Movies

Action movies frequently feature an eternally angry police captain. This character exists in conflict with the hero because the captain enforces a structured and hierarchical system that the hero sees as inflexible. The clash between the authority figure and the anti-establishment hero serves to highlight themes of individualism and resistance. Other examples include the rogue soldiers or agents in many modern action films, who operate outside the bounds of normal military or corporate orders.

Further Examples in Popular Films

The Star Wars series, beginning with the first film, is a perfect example of the outcast archetype. The rebels represent a group that is fighting against a structured and overwhelming imperial force. Their struggle symbolizes the broader themes of freedom, resistance, and independent action.

In addition to these examples, there are numerous full-length novels and short stories where the outcast character drives the plot. Consider Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens. Oliver is a character who can be seen as an outcast, struggling against the harshness of the orphanage and society. Similarly, Charlie Chaplin's The Kid (1921) and the character of Hamlet in Shakespeare's play are both significant examples of outcast characters. Throughout history, many great figures and characters have been outcasts in one form or another, from Satan in religious mythology to real-life historical figures like Napoleon Bonaparte.

Why the Outcast Character is Profitable

The persistence of the outcast character in films is not merely a stylistic choice but also a commercially viable one. Filmmakers recognize that an outcast character can resonate with audiences and serve as a powerful narrative device. By adding an anti-establishment element to the story, filmmakers can create compelling and relatable characters that audiences can identify with or admire from a distance.

Moreover, these characters often embody the themes of individualism, autonomy, and resistance. This is particularly appealing in a world where people often feel atomized and disconnected, seeking role models who are non-conformists and insurgents. The narrative benefits from the outcast's ability to challenge the status quo and inspire change, while the film industry benefits from the emotional appeal and relatability these characters bring to the screen.

Since the outcast character is an inherent part of human storytelling, filmmakers are continually drawn to this archetype. Whether through big-budget blockbusters or niche indie films, the outcast character remains a staple in the film industry, proving to be a versatile and enduring narrative tool.

Conclusion

The outcast character has become a significant and consistent archetype in contemporary film. From the solitary rebellious heroes of action movies to the lonely outcasts of longer storytelling, this character type adds depth, conflict, and emotional resonance to films. As long as audiences continue to resonate with the themes of individualism and resistance, the outcast character will remain a popular and profitable element in narrative storytelling.