Trainspotting

Gender

The representation of modern masculinity in Trainspotting affected by the portrayal of the dominance of female characters. In particular Diane (Kelly Macdonald), she is shown to be responsible, mature and a smart young woman despite her age. During a one-night stand she is able to dictate her rules to Renton who is portrayed as desperate for sex like an animal that lives on instincts. After they have intercourse, Diane forces Mark out of her room illustrating her strong will and independence. She also blackmails Renton with the involvement of the police, leaving him no other choice but to obey her terms and wishes.

Similarly Spud’s girlfriend shows her dominance in the relationship by making it clear what she desires. At the same time she is very caring towards Spud when he passes out after a night out. Finally Tommy’s girlfriend acts as dominant in their relationship and this is shown by her initiative to break up after she finds out about the sex tape mix up. After Tommy (Kevin Mckidd) becomes single, his life goes downhill: his flat becomes filthy and he looses his resistance to heroin eventually contracting HIV and dying. Tommy’s case illustrates the extent of male dependence on women and inability to function without them.

Trainspotting challenges the status quo by suggesting female dominance in Scottish society, thus reversing the common stereotypes and implying masculinity in crisis. The female characters are empowered especially when comparing to men in the film and possess many of the traditional and stereotypical masculine characteristics also fulfilling male roles. Such illustration of femininity is one of the reasons why the discourse of masculinity in crisis is evident throughout the film.