You are here:

Secrets of State

Name: Secrets of State
Director: Philippe Haïm
Released: 2008
Duration: 100 min

Representation Score

3.7/10

Limited

2008

Director

Philippe Haïm

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Secrets of State functions as a traditional geopolitical thriller centered on the balance between state actors and insurgents. The narrative structure prioritizes tactical nihilism and the mechanics of power over social or identity-based deconstruction. The film adheres to conventional genre expectations, focusing on the ruthless methods used by intelligence units and terrorist networks, which largely bypasses storytelling that reflects multiple aspects of identity.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Secrets of State have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film centers on conflicts between intelligence agencies and terrorist networks, with no apparent LGBTQ+ character arcs or non-straight identities.

How does Secrets of State portray gender?

Fair

The central conflict revolves around a rivalry between two male protagonists, emphasizing masculine-coded struggles for power and tactical advantage.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Secrets of State?

Fair

The premise highlights friction between Western agencies and non-Western networks, suggesting diverse casting but lacking clear evidence of deep ability to act for characters of color.

How does Secrets of State represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story delves into the moral ambiguity of statecraft and shadow warfare, avoiding singular religious morality and focusing on the pragmatic methods of both sides.

Does Secrets of State include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no evidence regarding the inclusion or portrayal of characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Present on Screen

Engages with complex geopolitical tensions and the friction between opposing ideologies
Offers a nuanced look at the moral ambiguity and shared methods of statecraft and insurgency

Limited or Absent

Relies heavily on masculine-coded clichés and male-driven conflict
Lacks representation regarding LGBTQ+ identities and disability
Lacks explicit focus on subverting traditional social hierarchies or identity-based storytelling

Official Synopsis

In France, terrorist groups and intelligence agencies battle in a merciless war everyday, in the name of radically opposed ideologies. Yet, terrorist and secret agents lead almost the same lives. Condemned to secrecy, these masters of manipulation follow the same methods. Alex and Al Barad are two of them. The former is the head of the D.G.S.E.'s (Direction Générale de la Sécurité Extérieure, the French equivalent of the CIA or the MI6) counter-terrorism unit while the latter reigns over a terrorist network, and both fight using the most ruthless of weapons: human beings.

How are these scores produced? →