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Heart and Soul

Name: Heart and Soul
Director: J. Gordon Edwards
Released: 1917
Duration: 50 min

Representation Score

1.7/10

Minimal

1917

Passed

Director

J. Gordon Edwards

Runtime

50 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Heart and Soul is a product of its time, functioning as a typical melodrama of the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around a protagonist who tries to transform her image from a 'vixenish' persona to a more conventional, self-sacrificing archetype to benefit her sister. While the film explores themes of personal transformation, it does so through the lens of traditional gender roles. Ultimately, the film lacks complexity in representing diverse identities and adheres to the homogenous casting and moral binaries of the era.

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Category Breakdown

Does Heart and Soul have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any characters with LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex relationships. It focuses solely on traditional heterosexual relationships and family structures.

How does Heart and Soul portray gender?

Fair

The story relies on the cliché of female self-sacrifice. Despite the protagonist's efforts to change her image, she ends up in a submissive and martyred role.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Heart and Soul?

Minimal

There are no diverse characters or non-Anglo-Saxon individuals in the film. It seems to adhere to the homogenous casting practices of the early 20th century.

How does Heart and Soul represent religion and culture?

Limited

The plot centers on conventional morality and the redemption of a flawed character through virtue. It emphasizes social reputation and family harmony over subversive themes.

Does Heart and Soul include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not depict or include any characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Present on Screen

The film delves into themes of personal transformation and navigating social reputation.

Limited or Absent

The narrative reinforces traditional gender hierarchies through the cliché of female martyrdom.
The film lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and diverse racial or ethnic groups.
There is no visible inclusion of characters with disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Desperate to change her vixenish image, Theda Bara was called upon to play a sweet young thing (she was nearly 30) who sacrifices herself for the happiness of her sister (Claire Whitney).

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