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The Words

Name: The Words
Director: Lee Sternthal, Brian Klugman
Released: 2012
Duration: 102 min

Representation Score

2.3/10

Limited

2012

PG-13

Director

Lee Sternthal, Brian Klugman

Runtime

102 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Words is a traditional psychological drama centered on individual ethics and personal integrity. While it employs non-linear storytelling, the narrative remains rooted in a very specific, homogeneous social context. The film focuses primarily on the moral conflict of a white, middle-class protagonist without challenging broader social hierarchies or representing diverse identities.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Words have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film follows traditional heterosexual and cisgender norms in its romantic and professional relationships. There is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex intimacy.

How does The Words portray gender?

Fair

The story passes the Bechdel test through a partnership, showing emotional complexity between characters. However, it does not challenge traditional gender roles or power dynamics.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Words?

Limited

The cast and setting focus on a homogeneous, white, middle-class intellectual community. There is a notable lack of racial diversity or non-Anglo-Saxon perspectives.

How does The Words represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative explores moral relativism and ethical ambiguity but does not critique Western institutions, capitalism, or organized religion.

Does The Words include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not depict any visible or invisible disabilities, nor does it feature neurodivergent characters or mental health conditions as central themes.

Present on Screen

The film offers a nuanced exploration of individual morality and ethical ambiguity.
The female protagonist plays a significant role in driving the story.

Limited or Absent

The narrative lacks racial diversity, focusing on a homogeneous demographic.
There is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth individuals.
The film does not include any depictions of disabilities or neurodivergence.

Official Synopsis

The Words follows young writer Rory Jansen who finally achieves long sought after literary success after publishing the next great American novel. There's only one catch - he didn't write it. As the past comes back to haunt him and his literary star continues to rise, Jansen is forced to confront the steep price that must be paid for stealing another man's work, and for placing ambition and success above life's most fundamental three words.

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