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In the Name of the Law

Name: In the Name of the Law
Director: Kjell Sundvall
Released: 1986
Duration: 87 min

Representation Score

4.2/10

Fair

1986

Director

Kjell Sundvall

Runtime

87 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

In the Name of the Law is a crime thriller that emphasizes institutional critique over broad demographic representation. It stands out by presenting law enforcement as a source of social instability and violence, thereby subverting the traditional heroic cop cliché. However, the film is confined to a demographic that is predominantly male and ethnically homogeneous, reflecting the limitations of 1980s European cinema. It lacks representation across various identity categories. Overall, the film's strength lies in its critical stance towards authority, rather than in its diversity.

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Category Breakdown

Does In the Name of the Law have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature any visible LGBTQ+ characters or stories that address non-straight relationships. The narrative centers on masculine power structures and institutional corruption.

How does In the Name of the Law portray gender?

Limited

The story follows traditional gender roles, emphasizing a male-dominated world. Female characters are notably absent from leadership positions or roles with significant influence.

How racially and ethnically diverse is In the Name of the Law?

Limited

The setting and casting reflect a very homogeneous Swedish society. The narrative stays within a local context without engaging with diverse racial backgrounds.

How does In the Name of the Law represent religion and culture?

Good

The film effectively critiques institutional authority by depicting the police as a corrupt entity. This challenges the idea of the police as a trustworthy institution.

Does In the Name of the Law include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not portray any characters with disabilities, either visible or invisible. The plot focuses on crime and corruption without addressing disability issues.

Present on Screen

Challenges the 'heroic cop' cliché by showing law enforcement as unstable.
Offers a strong critique of institutional authority and state-sanctioned violence.
Explores complex themes of moral ambiguity and professional misconduct.

Limited or Absent

Does not include LGBTQ+ characters or stories addressing non-straight relationships.
Does not feature female characters with significant influence or leadership roles.
Maintains a highly homogeneous cast without racial or ethnic diversity.

Official Synopsis

A group of four policemen is known for cruising the streets of Stockholm in their van, looking for drunks or criminals they can beat up with their batons. Lately witnesses saw them pick up a drunk who later was found dead. The four policemen deny any knowledge. Police inspector Jarnebring gets the case and finds out that these four policemen have been reported for 22 cases of police brutality. Shortly after, another criminal dies in their van...

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