Boyz in DA hood

There are an array of masculine qualities that are promoted in a positive light in the film Boys in the Hood, although they aren’t shown too often in the film. These positive qualities include when the boys are audacious, strong, and caring, especially toward their friends. The audience does see a glimpse of Tre’s father being the supportive, caring father, but no other protective fatherly figure is shown in the movie. As far as the dangerous qualities go, many of the boys, like Dough Boy, are seen as “hard” and not frightened by anything. They are constantly trying to prove their worth. For example, in the scene where Ricky gets bumped into by another gang member, in front of Dough Boy's car, Dough Boy immediately pulls out his gun to show how strong and “hard,” proving that he can easily protect himself and his friends. Although some may see this as a positive quality, this action promotes further violence and does not benefit anyone in the group.

Race is a predominant theme throughout the movie because African Americans are only shown to inhabit the “ghetto” streets of South Central L.A. In terms of masculinity, African Americans are portrayed in an negative light. They are portrayed as the sole gang-bangers and thugs in L.A. They are all seen carrying weapons, drinking heavily, treating women badly, and having high rates of teen pregnancy. (As I mentioned above, the only positive male influence in the movie is Tre’s father.) African Americans, in addition, are portrayed to take their masculinity and reputation to great regard as they are always trying to prove their worth and toughness.

Women don’t have a significant role in the movie. Males occupy the dominant role in the movie because they are the ones who live adventurous lives on the tough streets in LA. Women, on the other hand, are seen studying, trying to get a better education, or as homemakers. With that said, I see them as passive characters in the movie – they are left in the background story of the movie. The only female that stands out as an example of an “outsider-within” is Tre’s mom. She is the active female in the movie because she has a well-paid job and continuously influences Tre. She is constantly trying to better her life and that of her son. Most of the other women, such as Dough-Boy’s mom is always seen in her robe smoking a cigarette on the front porch.