1. Introduction

In 2023, the highly anticipated film Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, starring Harrison Ford, was released globally. This installment serves as a long-awaited continuation of the beloved Indiana Jones action-adventure franchise, following a 15-year break. Meanwhile, the talented British actress Phoebe Waller-Bridge has been added to the film in a unique and invaluable role. Remarkably, Harrison Ford returns to his iconic role in this timeless series at the age of eighty, once again captivating audiences with his action-packed performance. Within the realm of film study, Geri-action is a term that refers to a subgenre of action films. These films primarily focus on middle-aged male characters, portraying them in action-packed and adventurous storylines. At the same time, they also delve into the themes of aging and retirement [1]. In the realm of Hollywood action films, the stars of geri-action are typically actors who are 50 years or older and have found considerable success in the action genre, such as Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. In 2012, Ellexis Boyle and Sean Brayton discussed how the portrayal of older heroes in geri-action films reflects a resurgence of masculinity, a reaction to the challenges faced by men during the economic crisis, and the reinforcement of male hegemony [2]. However, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny presents a different perspective on geri-action, where the resurgence of masculinity is not about reinforcing male hegemony, but rather about challenging gender stereotypes. This opens up a new path for geri-action.

In order to explore alternative perspectives, this paper will utilize discourse analysis as a research method. According to Gillian Brown and George Yule’s Discourse Analysis, Discourse Analysis (DA) is an interdisciplinary research methodology that aims to comprehend how language is utilized in various social contexts and the effects it has [3]. This approach highlights the importance of language in its context and delves into the analysis of larger language units, such as conversations, texts, or collections of texts. It goes beyond focusing on smaller language elements like sounds, words, or phrases. As a result, it is widely used as a research method in film studies. Discourse analysis provides a comprehensive method for comprehending film. It explores the world of film as a multimodal text, uncovering hidden messages and societal impacts by examining storytelling, visuals, and sound [4]. For instance, film treatments and synopses are employed to assess thematic elements, character development, and plot sequences in order to obtain a deeper understanding of the film's central conflicts and resolutions, in addition to providing indirect character descriptions via action. This perspective demonstrates the intricate relationship between the structure of a narrative and the development of characters, illustrating how movies both mirror and influence societal beliefs and standards. Meanwhile, the author will utilize Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny as an example for discourse analysis. Through a thorough analysis of the characters' appearances in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, along with a comparison to previous films in the series and other similar works, this study aims to examine how the film explores new ways of portraying masculinity and challenges traditional male hegemony, taking into account the preferences of today's Hollywood audience. This paper delves into the evolving concept of masculinity and its impact on the stability of male hegemony in Geri-action. It sheds light on society's changing expectations of aging men and offers valuable insights for the film industry and gender studies.

2. Literature Review

2.1. The Evolution of Geri-action

During the early 2000s, there was a global economic recession, especially in the United States, in the field of information and communication technologies (ICT). This sector had seen a period of rapid innovation and resource allocation in the late 1990s and early 2000s, but it came to an end before the Great Recession. [5] During this period, there was a noticeable increase in unemployment and a decline in economic growth. Many individuals, particularly males, experienced heightened levels of stress and pressure compared to previous times. This pressure arises from the historical foundations of post-industrial societies, where men often derive their self-worth from their work. Additionally, men's roles in the economic system are often associated with traits such as competitiveness, aggression, and limited emotional expression, which are commonly associated with masculinity.[6] However, the foundation has faced significant challenges due to the recession. As work is closely linked to the male identity, the increase in unemployment can create a feeling of crisis among men. They are compelled to reassess and adjust their perception of masculinity due to the effects of the recession [7].

In the 2000s, Hollywood action films gained popularity with the inclusion of seasoned male heroes, often showcasing stars who were over 50 years old, like Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. On one hand, these geri-actions can be viewed as a result of the iconic action films from the 70s and 80s. Thanks to the enduring popularity of classic action stars, viewers are eagerly anticipating their latest adventures, fueled by a sense of nostalgia. This nostalgia is particularly strong in the current economic recession, as it provides a meaningful escape and boosts optimism and inspiration for the future [8]. On the other hand, these Geri-actions not only defy traditional gender roles and expectations, but also showcase the potential for redefining masculinity in difficult circumstances by highlighting the bravery and endurance of older male heroes. In traditional Hollywood action films, the male protagonists are typically depicted as youthful, in peak physical condition, and full of energy. Examples include Rambo, the seasoned veteran in First Blood (1982), and Jack Traven, the bomb disposal expert in Speed (1994). However, in geri-actions, the male protagonists are often portrayed as older individuals with diminishing stamina, which is seen as a departure from the norm. Soberon Lennart, on the other hand, challenges the stereotype of the aging male character in action films. He presents old age as a continuation of resilient, suffering masculinity and introduces the idea of the "economy of exertion", which implies that old age can coexist with heroism and that action movies utilize the vulnerabilities and traumas of age to their advantage. As someone who oversees operations, This highlights the way in which power dynamics are shaped within the context of labor, particularly in relation to age and the significance placed on personal narratives. It not only tells stories about challenging tasks in old age, but also highlights the remarkable determination of these individuals in their later years [9]. During periods of economic downturn, like the early 2000s, individuals might perceive geri-actions as a way to indulge in nostalgic consumption, seeking solace and reassurance. Through connecting with the strength and enduring influence of older action heroes, audiences can discover a path forward amidst challenges related to masculinity and societal expectations. This can help reaffirm a sense of male identity and reinforce the notion of male hegemony.

2.2. The Reflections of Male Hegemony in Geri-action

In action films, the hegemony of male characters is further strengthened by portraying them as the victims. This identity showcases the hero's moral worth through the trials and tribulations they endure. The protagonist's journey in the film often involves a transformation from a state of humiliation to one of justice, as they face and overcome various challenges and ultimately confront their adversary with determination. In her study of American history, Jonna Eagle highlighted the tendency of some individuals to portray themselves as victims in order to elicit strong emotions like anger, disgust, and indignation. This can sometimes lead to a justification for resorting to violence [10]. Soberon Lennart also covers this topic in his article, and he even applies it to action movies. In action movies. The hero's reputation is built not just on their triumphs, but also on their resilience in the face of defeat [10]. This performance highlights the various tensions and expectations related to the male body and the feminized qualities of contemporary society. In action cinema, pain and extreme discomfort are transformed into powerful performances that highlight the hero's resilience in the face of adversity, showcasing their strength and determination.

Seasoned heroes face a similar challenge in their actions as they age. They are typically known for their extensive experience, maturity, and seasoned expertise. Soberon Lennart mentions The Last Stand, 3 Days to Kill, and Taken 3 as examples. In the shootout cleanup in The Last Stand, Owen bravely seeks cover and persists in the fight, even though he humorously acknowledges his age. In Taken 3, Bryan Mills pushes himself to the limit, sprinting at full speed even when he's on the brink of physical exhaustion. Similarly, in 3 Days to Kill, Ethan Renner fearlessly takes on dangerous tasks despite battling a grave illness. These seasoned warriors share a common trait - despite their physical limitations, they always manage to find a way to triumph over their adversaries. Clearly, in geri-action, the primary focus is on highlighting the challenges faced by the elderly protagonist, whether they be physical or related to their life circumstances. By portraying these hardships, the aim is to evoke empathy from the audience and provide justification for the actions taken by the elderly hero in the story. Through triumphing over these challenges and ultimately emerging victorious against their adversaries in the adventure tale, it will demonstrate to viewers that advancing age does not hinder older heroes from achieving redemption. It highlights how their admirable traits, like wisdom and determination, hold the power to unlock success. This narrative reinforces the notion that they remain dependable and trustworthy even in the most dire circumstances. Indeed, the mature protagonist in the movies can be viewed as a reflection of the challenges faced by men during times of economic downturn. These films explore the journey of rediscovering self-worth and reestablishing a sense of identity in order to maintain male hegemony, all within the realm of popular entertainment.

3. Analysis

3.1. The Psychological Dilemma of the Aged Hero

One can approach Geri-actions with a new outlook, shifting the focus beyond the physical limitations like illness and strength, and instead considering the psychological aspects. This includes exploring ways for aged heroes to maintain social connections and find purpose, ultimately recognizing their own value. Particularly during the retirement years, psychological issues become more noticeable. The retirement phase is often romanticized as a time of relaxation and independence, yet it can also bring about notable difficulties like feelings of loneliness and a sense of losing one's sense of self. First, the challenge of retirement arises from significant shifts in social support systems. Retirement signifies a shift from being actively employed to entering a phase of non-work, which can bring about notable adjustments in social roles and identities. Retirement can result in a decrease in social interaction and social identity, potentially leading to a higher risk of social isolation. As per Social Connection Theory (SCT), the sense of belonging and emotional connection in the hierarchy of human needs play a crucial role in maintaining an individual's psychological well-being. Thus, retired older adults may encounter the difficulty of rebuilding social connections and finding fresh social roles. Experts have already pointed out the difficulties that retired seniors face when it comes to staying connected and avoiding loneliness. They have discussed different ways to tackle these issues, emphasizing the significance of having a social network, participating in meaningful activities, and feeling valued in relationships [11].

Additionally, retired individuals may encounter the challenge of maintaining social connections and finding purpose in their lives. For many individuals, their job holds significance beyond just financial gain. It serves as a way to establish their self-worth and make a positive impact on society. Discovering different ways to stay socially engaged after retiring is crucial for preserving one's mental well-being and overall happiness. Meaning in Life Theory (MIT) highlights the significance of discovering and actualizing meaning in life for one's psychological well-being. It suggests that retired older adults should seek out fresh avenues to attain personal fulfillment and social interaction, enabling them to navigate the spiritual challenges of life. Researchers have evaluated the presence and pursuit of purpose in life through the utilization of the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ). Life meaning is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, closely tied to happiness, life satisfaction, and psychological well-being. Studies indicate that having a sense of purpose in life is linked to increased well-being. For retirees, finding meaning and purpose outside of work is crucial for maintaining social engagement and a fulfilling life [12]. The validation process of the MLQ has shown that it is effective in measuring these constructs, which suggests that participating in activities that provide a sense of purpose and meaning can enhance retirees' mental health and life satisfaction. In a study conducted by Bordone et al., it was discovered that men's perception of aging is closely tied to their desire for personal autonomy, masculine identity, and the concept of successful aging [13]. According to Smith et al., older men often see hegemonic masculinity as a burdensome expectation. However, they argue that this expectation can be reframed as qualities related to responsibility, compassion, and assisting others, allowing men to uphold a sense of pride tied to their masculine identity [14].

In Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Dr. Jones encounters a challenging situation, making the film a unique portrayal of the masculinity crisis in a Geri-action genre. In the 1960s, Dr. Jones (Harrison Ford) is on the verge of retirement when Helena (Phoebe Waller-Bridge), the daughter of his late friend, expresses her desire to accompany him on his quest for "the Dial of Destiny," a priceless artifact with the potential to reshape history. Jones was involved in combat against the Nazis during the final stages of World War II. Once more, he finds himself in the midst of a battle for the Dial, with the lingering threat of the Nazi remnants. Dr. Jones and Helena embark on thrilling new adventures as they delve into the mysteries of the Dial. From the 22nd minute onwards, the film portrays Dr. Jones' bleak life as he approaches retirement, reflecting on his past and his connection to Dial after World War II. In 1969, after the Apollo moon landing, America is filled with joy and excitement. It appears that Dr. Jones lacks knowledge about a major historical event. He is rudely awakened at 8 a.m. by his inconsiderate neighbor Larry's blaring music. Irritated, he voices his complaint about the early morning disturbance. In response, Larry sarcastically suggests that he should check the news, as it happens to be Moon Day, the anniversary of the Apollo astronauts' moon landing. Dr. Jones' perplexed look mirrors his peculiar lack of social interaction. His work prior to retiring reflected this lack of alignment. Hunter College students are frequently observed sitting in their chairs during lectures, with one student in particular appearing to struggle to stay awake, even resorting to propping their head up with their hand. During class, Dr. Jones inquires if any students have familiarized themselves with the assigned books in advance. 

However, met with silence, he lightens the atmosphere by casually mentioning that the material will be included in the upcoming test. Colleagues organized and hosted Dr. Jones' birthday party, where a ceiling banner with the message "Happy Retirement" served as a reminder of his past challenges. Dr. Jones expressed gratitude for the host's patience and promptly wrapped up the interview following the host's acknowledgment of his lifelong professional journey. Dr. Jones has come to acknowledge that his age has led to a certain inflexibility in his thinking, which has caused some tension between him and his students and colleagues. He seems to be disconnected from society and not suitable for teaching. Furthermore, he hesitated to step down amidst such a dire circumstance and experienced a sense of helplessness and apprehension towards retirement due to his deep passion for archaeology. However, after retiring, he realized that he would never be able to pursue his passion again, and his sense of purpose would diminish. His life and personal relationships have been completely shattered. The film opens with a sweeping shot that focuses on a collection of mismatched socks outside the window. It then moves to a family photo of Dr. Jones, followed by an empty and neglected living room. Dr. Jones is depicted as being alone and desolate, sleeping on the couch until he is awakened by a neighbor. The disorganized materials and empty house serve as a representation of the prolonged separation within Dr. Jones' family and his inability to rescue them. During a conversation on a boat in the middle of the film, Dr. Jones' rebellious child expresses a desire to join the Vietnam War. Tragically, Dr. Jones is unable to dissuade his child, leading to his child's death in battle. Additionally, his inability to console his heartbroken wife ultimately leads to the dissolution of their family. This film delves into the psychological journey of an elderly protagonist as he grapples with his sense of self-worth after retirement. His longing for masculinity and the resulting pressure he feels due to his inability to work, care for his family, or pursue his own ideals are explored in this thought-provoking geri-action genre.

3.2. The “Rescued” Masculinity and Dissolved Male Hegemony

To explore the resurgence of masculinity in the film in a unique manner, we will go back to the fourth installment of the series, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (Indiana Jones 4). During the first hour of the film, Dr. Jones has a surprising encounter with his ex-wife Marion in a Soviet camp. This leads to a connection between him and his son Mutt, marking the beginning of a family bond. Throughout the story, Dr. Jones' role as the leader of the family is consistently highlighted. According to Bittman and Lovejoy, there has been a long-standing perception that men are the primary earners in the family, which has granted them greater influence and authority when it comes to financial matters, managing family affairs, and the education of their children [15]. During the intense situation of being trapped in quicksand, Dr. Jones takes on the role of an operations manager, remaining composed and focused. He works to reassure his ex-wife, Marion, and their son, Mutt, while also providing Mutt with instructions on how to rescue Marion. In contrast, Marion adopts a more passive approach, repeating phrases like "I'm calm" and relying on Dr. Jones' guidance. Marion consistently maintains a calm demeanor, appearing light-hearted and refraining from taking initiative, instead choosing to passively accept Dr. Jones's reassurances. While waiting to be rescued, Dr. Jones discusses homeschooling with Marion. Prior to discovering that Mutt is Dr. Jones' biological son, he advises Marion, as an outsider, against pressuring Mutt to attend school. However, once Marion reveals Mutt's true parentage, Dr. Jones quickly changes his stance and confronts Marion, questioning why she didn't ensure Mutt completed his education. From this point forward, Dr. Jones undergoes a transformation, viewing Marion and Mutt as his own family. This solidifies his role as the leader of the family, tasked with the duty of safeguarding and guiding them. In these ways, the character of Indiana Jones in Indiana Jones 4 explores the qualities of calmness, experience, courage, wisdom, and perseverance that underlie the character, showcasing the strength and stability of his masculinity. This implies that within geri-actions, elderly heroes continue to exhibit impressive strength and worth, thereby upholding and strengthening conventional notions of masculinity and male hegemony.

In Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, Dr. Jones' role as a leader and the strong influence of his family are challenged. Dr. Jones, similar to any other aging hero, grapples with feelings of guilt for not being able to provide for his family and experiences fear and disorientation as he loses his once esteemed social status as a renowned archaeologist, resulting in a crisis of masculinity. Dr. Jones faces a unique challenge that goes beyond physical ailments - a psychological crisis of male identity that requires careful guidance to overcome. Dr. Jones is no longer able to oversee the overall operations. Helena, the new female protagonist, saves Dr. Jones' sense of self and disrupts the long-standing male hegemony in the series, which is spearheaded by Indiana Jones. In the film, Helena is depicted as the goddaughter of Dr. Jones and the daughter of his late best friend. Her father dedicated his life to studying the Dial of Destiny and eventually lost his sanity. Helena, aspiring to emulate her father, gains extensive knowledge about the Dial, but ultimately transforms into a shrewd smuggler due to a lack of self-control. She possesses a strong sense of independence, a relentless drive for profit, exceptional survival skills, and a rebellious spirit. These qualities make her a formidable and untamable woman, impervious to manipulation by Dr. Jones, despite his seniority and power.

Helena is considering hiring Dr. Jones to locate the Dial and then profit from its sale in the movie. She strategically arranges to encounter Dr. Jones in a college course, with the intention of later approaching him in a bar. Helena's words inadvertently ignite Dr. Jones' sense of adventure, despite their divergent objectives. When Helena unintentionally upsets Dr. Jones with her playful compliments, he questions why she would want to pursue something that caused her father distress. Helena once again inquires, "Wouldn't you?" Dr. Jones falls silent, indicating a moment of introspection. Dr. Jones' demeanor shifts after this conversation. Dr. Jones had reservations about returning, given the challenges he faced in his personal life and work environment prior to retirement. He didn't believe he could locate the dial that caused his deceased friend's distress. Helena's words ignited a deep passion for archaeology within Dr. Jones, leading him on thrilling adventures in the field. He takes great pride in his role as an adventurer, leading archeological expeditions. He recognizes a familiar spirit in Helena, with her youthful, adventurous, and energetic nature. The role Helena plays in helping Dr. Jones come to terms with his family's guilt is of utmost importance. After successfully evading the Tangier mob, Dr. Jones reprimands Helena for her actions, suggesting that his father would have held her accountable for her heinous deeds. Helena abruptly mentions the passing of her father and accuses Dr. Jones of not fulfilling his role as a godfather. Dr. Jones became extremely upset and attempted to justify his lack of responsibility because this deeply affected him. However,Helena shifted the situation and mentioned that there was no need for excessive self-criticism, as he himself struggled with familial relationships. This unanticipated interruption leaves Dr. Jones completely stunned and prompts him to reflect on his responsibilities to his family and his own areas for improvement. The bond between Helena and Dr. Jones is deepened when Dr. Jones reveals the reason behind his decision to break up his family on the fishing boat. He explains that he was unable to convince his defiant son to enlist in the Vietnam War and sacrifice his life in combat, which would have brought solace to his mourning wife.

The story's portrayal of Helena is influenced by the women's liberation movement. The social and cultural landscape of the 1960s was significantly transformed by movements such as feminism, the civil rights movement, and the anti-war movement. These movements played a crucial role in empowering women and fostering their independence. In her analysis, Sara M. Evans highlights the impact of the Civil Rights and New Left movements on the feminist movement. She emphasizes how these movements provided women with valuable opportunities to engage in political and organizational activism, ultimately fueling their pursuit of gender equality [16]. A significant number of civil rights activists were women who played a pivotal role in coordinating protests, rallies, and community initiatives. These experiences helped develop their leadership and independence skills, further fueling their commitment to achieving equal rights. Alice Echols proceeds to analyze radical feminism in the United States, delving into its impact on women's independence and the challenges it poses. Radical feminism has critically examined gender roles and social institutions, advocating for women's independence and autonomy, even in the face of internal disagreements and societal resistance [17].

Helena challenges Dr. Jones' patriarchal hegemony through her words and actions in the film. Dr. Jones blamed Helena for her marriage to a member of the mob in Tangier, prompting Helena to cleverly retort that Dr. Jones, a practitioner of tomb raiding, is in no position to pass judgment on her. Helena's expression turns sour as Dr. Jones mentions his achievements involving her father: "Please spare me the details of your supposedly noble and selfless endeavors." You did it for the excitement! Helena's quote presents a fresh perspective on Dr. Jones' history, portraying her as a contemporary woman. Indiana Jones is widely regarded as a paragon of masculine heroism, intellect, and accountability, particularly among more mature viewers. Helena views it as a means to cater to Dr. Jones' self-indulgent desire for excitement. Helena's actions demonstrate her autonomy. Throughout the chase, she takes initiative, acting without waiting for Dr. Jones's instructions. She fearlessly punches, climbs outside the car, and wields a steel pipe to fend off the gangsters. While on the fishing boat, Helena employed a strategic tactic to divert the enemy's focus and collaborated with Dr. Jones to overcome the siege using explosive devices. These symbols reflect the autonomy of women within the contemporary social context, as well as challenge and reshape traditional gender norms. In Betty Friedan's book The Feminine Mystique, women who were becoming more independent began to question the societal expectation of being a housewife. They desired more opportunities for education, career growth, and personal satisfaction. This shift challenged the traditional roles of men in both the home and the workplace, ultimately disrupting the male-dominated system [18].

The film examines the power dynamics in Indiana Jones' character by introducing Helena, who serves as a catalyst for change. It delves into the complexities of their father-daughter relationship, showcasing a progression from initial conflict to eventual understanding and mutual respect, thus challenging traditional gender roles. While aboard a fishing boat, Helena and Dr. Jones engage in a conversation about the historical significance of the dial. When Helena jokingly suggests that the Dial possesses magical powers, Jones dismisses the notion, stating his disbelief in magic. However, he does admit to encountering numerous unexplainable phenomena. He emphasizes the importance of one's level of conviction rather than the specific content of their beliefs. Helena comprehended Dr. Jones' statement and expressed her belief in the value of cash. Instead of re-educating her as an experienced parent, Dr. Jones departed silently. Helena ponders the hypothetical scenario of traveling back in time and contemplates the potential actions she would take. Dr. Jones regrets not preventing his son from enlisting in the military, as it would have been beneficial for their family. Helena's expression turned somber, mirroring Dr. Jones'. This encounter offered her a fresh perspective on him. Helena, a woman deprived of paternal affection, perceived a deep sense of paternal love in Dr. Jones and comprehended his profound passion for archaeology. In the upcoming episode, Dr. Jones and Helena manage to successfully flee the fishing boat in a dinghy, evading their pursuers. Upon receiving the dial, Helena and Teddy are discussing strategies to increase the value of this dial on the black market, when Dr. Jones unexpectedly approaches and takes it away, stating that it should be put in a museum. Instead of confronting Dr. Jones, Helena discreetly signals to Teddy to take control of the boat. In contrast to her behavior at the black market auction, she engaged in sales transactions despite Dr. Jones and engaged in a heated argument with him regarding the adjustment of the dial. The film concludes with a lighthearted approach to reuniting Dr. Jones with his family. Following the defeat of their enemies, Dr. Jones and Helena encounter Archimedes, a learned individual from the Battle of Syracuse. Dr. Jones intends to remain in the past, specifically during the Battle of Syracuse, in order to pursue his archaeological profession. Helena intends to transport Dr. Jones to her residence, primarily due to his injuries, but also because she has already formed a paternal bond with him. Ultimately, Dr. Jones asserts, "I need to do this," displaying a strong and assertive demeanor. In response, Helena's countenance darkens, and she declares, "me too," promptly delivering a forceful punch to Dr. Jones' face.

The act of punching in this context serves as a symbol of resistance against conventional hyper-masculine action films, effectively challenging and dismantling the dominant male power structure with a single blow. Despite its significant impact, the outcome is subtle. Helena's strong desire to bring Dr. Jones home indicates a deep emotional connection and a reluctance to let go of the paternal affection she has developed. Dr. Jones is reminded of his passion for archaeology and the importance of his family. While Dr. Jones is in the midst of recovering from his injuries at home, Helena surprises him by inviting Marion directly to his residence. When Marion inquires, Dr. Jones, who is wounded and battered, expresses that he is experiencing pain throughout his body. This line depicts Dr. Jones's authentic demeanor and exposes the emotional turmoil he experiences following his family's separation. Dr. Jones inquired about Marion's pain, to which she vaguely indicated two areas and replied, "It doesn't hurt here." This gesture led to a bittersweet moment as Dr. Jones tenderly kissed her, symbolizing the emotional wounds that love and affection can cause, which require time to heal. The conclusion of the story brings Helena and Dr. Jones together, revealing a more vulnerable side to the seasoned hero and challenging traditional gender roles.

4. Conclusion

This study delves into the evolution of masculinity and the embodiment of male hegemony in geri-actions, using Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny as an example of a discourse analysis that uncovers a nuanced comprehension of dominant masculinity and its potential for transformation in geri-actions. By conducting a thorough analysis, we examine the film to uncover its exploration of aging masculinity and its departure from traditional male hegemony towards more inclusive forms of representation. The study emphasizes the possibility of the genre moving away from reinforcing male hegemony to challenging gender stereotypes, indicating that the portrayal of older masculinity has undergone significant changes within the genre. Nevertheless, this study acknowledges certain limitations in its scope. For instance, it did not utilize empirical methods like surveys or interviews, which could have enhanced the analysis by including diverse viewpoints of viewers on the impact of films. Furthermore, the narrow scope of examining only one film restricts the ability to apply the study's conclusions to other geri-action films. In order to address these limitations, future research could consider incorporating a broader selection of films and adopting a mixed-method approach to obtain a more holistic perspective on the genre's development.