Boomers In Action: The Baby Boomer Influence On Action Movies

The Baby Boomer generation, the population born between 1946 and 1964 according to the US Census Bureau, influences nearly every industry as they progress through life. Diapers, formula, and other infant essentials were just the start. Later, the auto industry swelled with the demands of new drivers. Fashion, music, medicine, real estate, and other markets all continue to be affected by, and cater to, the needs and interests of this large demographic.

The film industry has been no exception. Now that the Boomers are aging, as are many of our favorite stars, the faces of action movies are maturing. Last years shoot-em-up mercenary flick, The Expendables, starred several epic and advanced actors including Sylvester Stalone, Bruce Willis, and Jet Li. Another 2010 action-comedy movie, RED, also starred Bruce Willis, alongside such classic names as Morgan Freeman, John Malkovich, and Helen Mirren. Clint Eastwood, though older than the Boomers, is a man who has been idolized by the generation since his tough-guy persona stole both the small screen and the silver screen in the late 50s and early 60s. He has been starring in similar parts since, including his heart-warming, yet undeniably macho leading role in the 2008 film Gran Torino.

My father, a Boomer himself, is a movie buff himself. He eats these movies up, with a handful of Smarties candy and a microwaved bag of extra butter popcorn, on a weekly basis. When he retires in the next couple of years, I imagine his time in front of the tube will only increase. If there is a substantial amount of retirees doing the same thing, and we can bet solidly there are, we can only imagine they will be searching for new releases to entertain them in their golden years.

Most Boomers probably arent giddy over the next Twilight; they want something they can relate to. The film RED is of particular value to this topic because of the intended meaning behind the acronym Retired Extremely Dangerous. This sentiment appeals to men and women who are at or approaching retirement age. They know they still have a lot of vitality and value in society, and a film depicting scheme-hatching gun-toting seniors offers an action fantasy validation of this everyday fact.

This impact on film can only work in the favor of the older generations. Younger generations will see these movies and be inspired by actors who are the same age as their parents, grandparents, and even great-grandparents. Children will identify with their elders and, hopefully, see them for all their lifes worth and not just the present challenges often posed by health issues or job situations. This is a great side effect of plain old good action entertainment. I know Im looking forward to the next Bruce Willis flick.

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