You are here:

Smile Pretty

Smile Pretty

Representation Score

3.3/10

Limited

2009

R

Director

Harry Bromley Davenport

Runtime

87 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Smile Pretty is a character-driven drama centered on a young girl's journey through the aftermath of abuse. While it offers a meaningful look at female-centric trauma, the narrative remains narrow in scope. The film lacks diverse representation of LGBTQ+ identities or racial diversity. It operates as a traditional domestic drama without engaging broader systemic critiques. Its strength lies in exploring individual psychological resilience, but it does not address broader cultural or diverse perspectives.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Smile Pretty have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or stories about non-cisgender identities. The plot focuses solely on the protagonist's personal struggles.

How does Smile Pretty portray gender?

Fair

The female protagonist, Nastalia, showcases strong female leadership despite facing domestic trauma. However, the film emphasizes victimhood rather than challenging gender inequalities.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Smile Pretty?

Minimal

There is no indication of a diverse cast or non-Anglo-Saxon majority. The film follows typical casting practices for its genre.

How does Smile Pretty represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story critiques traditional family structures as oppressive sites. It delves into psychological struggles without broader institutional or anti-Western critiques.

Does Smile Pretty include disability representation?

Fair

The central theme revolves around childhood trauma and psychological distress. The protagonist's efforts to change her life highlight an invisible disability.

Present on Screen

  • Highlights strong female leadership through the protagonist's struggle.
  • Examines the psychological impact of childhood trauma and domestic instability.
  • Presents a realistic depiction of the complexities of overcoming personal torment.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks diverse representation of LGBTQ+ or ethnic identities.
  • Does not engage with broader systemic or institutional critiques.
  • Follows conventional casting patterns without visible racial diversity.

Official Synopsis

Nastalia is too young to have experienced many things in life, but as an abused child she has already experienced the darkest side of it. Now a young teen she takes it upon herself to change her life for the better, but the torment that is so interlaced with her childhood will haunt her every step forward.

How are these scores produced? →

Where to Watch

Rate this Movie

No rating selected
Use arrow keys to select a rating from 1 to 5 stars
Optional text review, maximum 2000 characters
Tip: Wrap spoilers with ||double pipes|| to hide them
0/2000 characters
You must be signed in to submit a rating

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!

Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.