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What's in a Name

What's in a Name

Representation Score

4.6/10

Fair

2012

PG

Director

Alexandre de La Patellière, Matthieu Delaporte

Runtime

110 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

What's in a Name is a character-driven drama that explores social tension among a small group. Set in a single location, the film delves into how a naming dispute can reveal deep-seated conflicts and hidden secrets. While the film provides a nuanced look at the social dynamics of the Parisian upper-middle class, it lacks diversity in its cast and themes. The characters represent a specific, homogeneous socio-economic group, reinforcing traditional social and identity hierarchies. Ultimately, the film serves as a study of individual personalities and interpersonal conflicts. It offers a critical view of modern social customs but remains within a narrow cultural context.

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Category Breakdown

Does What's in a Name have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film follows traditional social norms and does not have a central LGBTQ+ storyline or focus on non-straight identities. It stays within the bounds of typical heterosexual expectations.

How does What's in a Name portray gender?

Fair

Women like Elizabeth and Anna show strong intellectual influence in the story. However, the film maintains traditional gender roles within a domestic ensemble setting.

How racially and ethnically diverse is What's in a Name?

Limited

The cast is predominantly white and middle-class, reflecting a homogeneous Parisian community. The story does not intentionally blend different races or ethnicities to challenge the status quo.

How does What's in a Name represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story critiques modern social customs and personal preferences rather than religious or familial institutions. It centers on individual egos rather than challenging religious or family structures.

Does What's in a Name include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not address visible or invisible disabilities. The narrative does not incorporate themes related to neurodivergence or chronic illnesses.

Present on Screen

  • Offers a sharp critique of modern secular social customs and bourgeois pretensions.
  • Highlights female characters with significant intellectual influence within the ensemble.

Limited or Absent

  • Could benefit from more racial and ethnic diversity in the cast.
  • Needs to include representation for disabilities and neurodivergent perspectives.
  • Should explore LGBTQ+ identities and challenge traditional social structures.

Official Synopsis

Vincent, a wealthy real estate agent, is invited to dinner by his sister Elizabeth and her husband Peter, both professors in Paris. Claude, a childhood friend and trombonist in a symphony orchestra, is also present. Vincent brings news from the prenatal examination of his and his wife Anna's unborn son. The name chosen by the soon-to-be parents strongly offends the others for many reasons. The dispute between the guests quickly escalates and before long the resurgence of old grudges and hidden secrets is unavoidable...

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