Star Theory & Will Smith

Movies have been a core part of America’s culture since the theatres first opened. People of all ages enjoy a good movie, but what qualifies a movie as good? That is something that has been debated and argued for a long time and will be for even longer. The question of what entices someone to purchase that ticket and take a chance on the movie though is more understood. Movie stars are just that, they are stars in our culture.

Many people flock to see a certain movie for one reason, the lead actor or actress. What causes this type of buzz? What is it about certain people that America just can’t get enough of? Star theory explores this type of attraction that moviegoers have. Will Smith is a Hollywood star who is a prime example of star theory, and this paper will explore that.

According to Richard Dyer, star theory is, “...made out of media texts that can be grouped together as promotion, publicity, films, and criticism,” that the star is produced through advertising, news releases, and star-vehicle films, that the modern star is produced, in short, by the culture industry as it operated within Classical Hollywood.

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” Will Smith embodies this star theory as he is an incredibly prominent actor. Audiences flock to his movies and it shows with his net worth being close to 300 million. According to IMBD, Will Smith, “is ranked as the most bankable star worldwide by Forbes. As of 2014, 17 of the 21 films in which he has had leading roles have accumulated worldwide gross earnings of over $100 million each, five taking in over $500 million each in global box office receipts.

As of 2014, his films have grossed $6.6 billion at the global box office.” People are also attracted to Will Smith himself. Will Smith made an Instagram in December of 2017 and already has 22 million followers. Every interesting post he makes creates a buzz and he has taken social media by storm. He’s done this by doing just what he does in every film, he is uniquely himself which makes him so versatile.

Will Smith got his start in The Fresh Prince of Bel Air as a quirky, out of place jokester in the wealthy city of Bel Air. Viewers loved the natural humor he possessed and was such a likable character. He has kept this going throughout his Hollywood career. Will Smith starred in Bad Boys which was a blockbuster and in the Men in Black movies which is also known as a comedy classic and a favorite series for many. Smith’s character is the humorous one in the movie, but this also showed that he could act in a serious way and that he was extremely talented. He was not just a “comedian”. Smith starred in the movie I Am Legend, and the reception was incredible. IMBD reports that, “its opening was the largest ever for a film released in the United States during December. (Smith) considers the film to be 'aggressively unique'. A reviewer said that the film's commercial success 'cemented [Smith's] standing as the number one box office draw in Hollywood.' If Will Smith is starring in a movie, it is a given that the crowds will follow. He is not just a “sell out”, Will Smith’s versatility allow him to take chances on movies and also double as a trail blazer for artistic styles and projects.

Will Smith also has a huge influence on people. Like it was mentioned early, Smith boasts an Instagram following of 22 million. This astounding number shows that people don’t just want to see him act, they want to hear him speak! One YouTube search will bring up tons of inspirational videos with Will Smith voicing them over and providing the passion and push to get you through the obstacle you might be facing. Audiences relate to Will Smith and can see themselves in him. Will Smith is a dynamic yet relatable actor whose entire life has taken Hollywood by storm. He and his son, Jaden Smith, starred in The Pursuit of Happyness which helped cement his ability to motivate. This moving film showed audiences again how Smith can act in a way that tears at your heart. Seven Pounds follows this same formula. Both of those films deal with heart wrenching situations and follow characters who are facing an uphill battle. America relates to Will Smith and sees themselves in him through his hardworking traits, charismatic personality, and diverse ability to make an audience laugh, cry and dream big.

Will Smith has become quite larger than life. Through his immersion in films, tv shows, a rap career, and social media, he has become an icon. He has marketed himself in a way that crowds do not second guess going to see a movie of his, and if they have their doubts, they still take a chance because of his immense skill. Will Smith represents a family man, who has their own share of obstacles and weaknesses, but is a consistent overcomer. He overcomes and does not lose his positive outlook on life, which inspire many. Star theory deals with this exact occurrence, when a person becomes more than just a person, they become a voice and an influence bigger than anyone could’ve foreseen. The sky is the limit and it certainly appears that is the case with Will Smith.