By C. J. De Mel, Jadetimes News
For some time, discussions about "the death of stardom" have dominated conversations about Hollywood, with claims that young actors cannot match the clout of icons like Tom Cruise, Julia Roberts, and Will Smith. However, recent trends suggest this might be changing. The elusive nature of what makes a Movie Star remains a topic of fascination and debate.
Defining a Movie Star
Film scholar Richard Dyer, in his 1979 text Stars, describes the star as both "ordinary and extraordinary." Jeanine Basinger, in her 2007 book The Star Machine, likens Hollywood's star making process to a production line, where success is unpredictable: "Sometimes a manufactured product turned out perfectly. Sometimes it blew up in the shopping cart." As Lauren Bacall once said, "Stardom isn't a profession. It's an accident."
Hollywood's attempts to bottle or reproduce stardom often fail. Square jawed actors like Sam Worthington in Avatar have fallen flat, while unexpected talents like Timothée Chalamet, with his unconventional looks and roles, have risen to prominence. Chalamet's transition from indie films to leading roles in mega franchises like Dune exemplifies the unpredictable nature of stardom.
Challenges in Modern Hollywood
Post Covid Hollywood faces numerous challenges, including threats to cinemas and disruptions in the streaming industry. Critics argue that the focus on CGI driven, high concept films has overshadowed the human element crucial for creating stars. Film critic Charles Bramesco notes the decline of mid budget films, which historically helped turn likeable talents into household names. The reduction in adult dramas and romantic comedies, once Hollywood's mainstay, has contributed to this issue.
The New A List
Despite these challenges, a new crop of actors is emerging as bona fide Movie Stars.
Glen Powell: Powell's rise to fame began with his role in the romantic comedy Anyone But You, which grossed $220 million internationally. His charisma and chemistry with co stars, combined with his old school Hollywood looks and social media savvy, have endeared him to audiences. Powell's performances in Top Gun: Maverick and Hit Man showcase his versatility and appeal.
Margot Robbie: Initially known for her role in The Wolf of Wall Street, Robbie has seized control of her career, becoming a creative producer and taking on diverse roles. Her portrayal of Barbie is set to cement her status as a Movie Star.
Austin Butler: Butler's performance in Elvis has propelled him to stardom. His upcoming roles, including a part in Twisters, demonstrate his versatility and appeal.
Zendaya: Transitioning from teen dramas to major film roles, Zendaya's success with Challengers and her substantial earnings highlight her rise to the A list.
How Stars Are Made
Stars rarely achieve overnight success. Instead, they build their careers through years of smaller roles and television appearances before their breakout film. Butler, Robbie, and Powell all had modest beginnings before becoming stars. Social media and celebrity press play significant roles in building a star's persona, creating a parasocial relationship with fans. Shows like Hot Ones, where celebrities face real life discomfort, add to their relatability and charm.
Essential Qualities of Movie Stars
True Movie Stars possess a combination of charisma, self awareness, and the ability to choose roles that fit their type while exploring their range as performers. For example,
Austin Butler: Using his retro cred from Elvis, Butler delves into mid century Americana with roles reminiscent of Marlon Brando and James Dean.
Sydney Sweeney: Balancing sex appeal with diverse roles, Sweeney is producing projects that challenge her image, such as a remake of Barbarella and a biopic about boxer Christy Martin.
The resurgence of stardom in Hollywood showcases a new generation of actors who are redefining what it means to be a Movie Star. Through a combination of talent, strategic role choices, and media savvy, these actors are leaving a lasting impression on audiences and revitalizing the allure of Hollywood stardom.
