You are here:

Next of Kin

Name: Next of Kin
Director: Anja Breien
Released: 1979
Duration: 95 min

Representation Score

4.9/10

Fair

1979

Director

Anja Breien

Runtime

95 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Next of Kin is a strong example of Scandinavian feminist cinema that emphasizes the experiences of women navigating family inheritance. By focusing on the internal lives of women, the film effectively dismantles traditional gender roles and power dynamics. However, the film's impact is somewhat limited by its lack of diverse representation and explicit LGBTQ+ stories, which affects its overall score despite its progressive gender themes.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Next of Kin have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include explicit LGBTQ+ stories or non-cisgender identities as central plot elements. While the focus is on female experiences, there are no overtly queer-coded characters or same-sex relationships.

How does Next of Kin portray gender?

Excellent

Breien stands out by challenging traditional gender roles by highlighting female independence and unity. The characters demonstrate intelligence and self-determination, breaking down the stereotype of the passive woman.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Next of Kin?

Limited

The cast is mainly white and uniform, reflecting the film's Norwegian production context. The film serves as a local social study without intentional racial mixing or broad diversity.

How does Next of Kin represent religion and culture?

Good

The story questions Western traditions by examining inheritance through the lens of female heirs. It challenges the morality of patriarchal institutions and family-run capital, favoring personal freedom.

Does Next of Kin include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities playing key roles in the narrative. Disability is not used as a plot device.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gender roles and patriarchal storytelling.
Highlights female independence and psychological autonomy.
Critiques Western inheritance models and family-run capital.

Limited or Absent

Lacks racial and ethnic diversity in the cast.
Does not include explicit LGBTQ+ stories or non-cisgender identities.
Could benefit from broader characters who reflect more than one aspect of diversity.

Official Synopsis

Gathered at a funeral for a successful business man, the testament is to be read. They will all inherit, with a big IF; if the family company is to be joint run by all the heirs.

How are these scores produced? →