You are here:

Written By

Name: Written By
Director: Wai Ka-Fai
Released: 2009
Duration: 85 min

Representation Score

7.1/10

Good

2009

Director

Wai Ka-Fai

Runtime

85 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Written By is a sophisticated postmodern work that uses a meta-fictional lens to challenge traditional cinematic authority. Its strength lies in questioning reality to explore fluid truth and ability to act. While the film avoids overt identity politics, its structural choices favor a more subjective and layered approach to storytelling. It moves away from fixed, objective truths in favor of a more relativistic narrative. However, the film remains largely within conventional frameworks regarding specific identity representations, such as LGBTQ+ and disability, focusing instead on metaphysical and creative themes.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Written By have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film focuses on romantic and professional relationships within a conventional drama framework. There is no explicit depiction of non-binary genders or critiques of the assumption that everyone is straight.

How does Written By portray gender?

Fair

The narrative centers around a female protagonist whose creativity and actions drive the story. This places the female perspective at the forefront of the film's development.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Written By?

Fair

As a Hong Kong production, the film offers a non-Western perspective. It provides an authentic portrayal of urban Asian professional life, challenging the dominance of Western cinema.

How does Written By represent religion and culture?

Good

Postmodern techniques blur the lines between the creator and the creation. This structure promotes a subjective approach to morality and identity, emphasizing individual perspectives.

Does Written By include disability representation?

Fair

There is no significant portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities. The film explores abstract concepts of death rather than addressing lived disability experiences.

Present on Screen

Centers a female protagonist as the primary creative and narrative architect.
Provides a non-Western, authentic portrayal of urban Asian professional life.
Uses postmodern structures to challenge traditional, linear storytelling clichés.

Limited or Absent