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Old Goriot

Name: Old Goriot
Director: Jean-Daniel Verhaeghe
Released: 2004
Duration: 111 min

Representation Score

4.4/10

Fair

2004

Director

Jean-Daniel Verhaeghe

Runtime

111 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Jean-Daniel Verhaeghe’s adaptation of Balzac’s work serves as a critique of 19th-century class structures. It emphasizes historical accuracy and the moral implications of mercantilism over modern identity-focused narratives. The film lacks diverse representation, particularly in LGBTQ+, racial, and disability categories. However, it excels in its cultural critique, highlighting the destructive impact of wealth on family stability and social justice. It effectively deconstructs the traditional family unit and provides a deep exploration of systemic socioeconomic oppression.

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Category Breakdown

Does Old Goriot have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film strictly follows the societal norms of 19th-century France, focusing on heterosexual relationships and ignoring any non-traditional gender identities or same-sex relationships.

How does Old Goriot portray gender?

Fair

Women in the film navigate a strict patriarchal society where social status is crucial. Despite showing strong character development, the film upholds traditional gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Old Goriot?

Minimal

The casting reflects the demographics of 19th-century Paris, focusing on the white, European upper and working classes.

How does Old Goriot represent religion and culture?

Good

The film critiques capitalist values and the breakdown of empathy. It portrays the traditional family unit as a place of exploitation and manipulation.

Does Old Goriot include disability representation?

Limited

The film does not focus on neurodivergence, physical disabilities, or mental health issues. Characters' struggles are mainly related to socioeconomic and moral issues.

Present on Screen

Critiques the corrosive effects of capitalism on empathy
Deconstructs the traditional family unit through themes of exploitation
Studies systemic socioeconomic oppression and class struggle

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of non-traditional gender identities or same-sex relationships
Maintains a homogeneous, Eurocentric cast
Does not include significant narratives centered on disability or neurodivergence

Official Synopsis

A poor but ambitious young man arrives in Paris and settles down in the boarding house run by Madame Vauquer. He soon gets to know the guests: Victorine Taillefer, a young lady her rich father refuses to recognize; Horace Bianchon, a medical student; Monsieur Vautrin, a mysterious and disconcerting man; Goriot, a rich merchant who spent all his fortune for his daughters, Delphine and Anastasie, to make a rich marriage. Eugène becomes friends with Goriot but while the former, thanks to his cousin Madame de Beauséant, is introduced in high society, Goriot, both exploited and scoffed at by his daughters, continues his descent into hell.

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