One of the most significant media genres is superhero films, which have historically sexualized women. This research explores how Reddit users on superhero subreddits maintain and subvert dominant gendered discourse surrounding Black Widow. Beginning with a summary of relevant literature, this research considers discourse theory and outlines several prominent feminist theories. In addition, it considers the influence of superhero films within American culture and offers an explanation as to why Reddit data functions as a valuable data source for understanding the power of discourse. After conducting a thematic analysis, I identified three key themes. First, Reddit users center white, Western women’s experiences in their discussions of the film, simultaneously focusing on the experiences of women, while assuming the universality of these experiences. Second, Redditors engaged in the male gaze to understand, maintain, or disrupt Black Widow’s historic sexualization in their discussions. Third, several areas of discussion, focused on the male antagonist and surrogate father, divided Reddit users. Some used posts as an opportunity to discuss the struggles women face within and outside of the film. Others upheld dominant narratives surrounding the experiences of sex trafficking and sexist humor. This research concludes with theoretical, methodological, and practical implications, as well as limitations and opportunities for future research. Keywords: Gender, Discourse Theory, Thematic Analysis, Superhero, Reddit
