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Assassin in the Phonebook

Name: Assassin in the Phonebook
Director: Léo Joannon
Released: 1962
Duration: 93 min

Representation Score

1.1/10

Minimal

1962

Director

Léo Joannon

Runtime

93 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

This film is a typical mid-century character study that relies on the 'wrong man' cliché. It focuses on the social isolation of Albert, an office worker who is wrongfully accused and victimized by his colleagues and a flawed system. While the protagonist faces exclusion, the film adheres to the demographic norms of its time. It functions as a classic comedic crime drama without offering a progressive exploration of diverse identities or challenging established social orders.

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Category Breakdown

Does Assassin in the Phonebook have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any characters with non-straight sexual orientations or same-sex relationships. It follows a traditional social comedy and crime storyline.

How does Assassin in the Phonebook portray gender?

Limited

The main character is a man who deals with professional and criminal troubles. Women in the film do not seem to have significant roles or challenge traditional gender norms.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Assassin in the Phonebook?

Limited

The story is set in 1962 France and portrays a society that seems homogeneous. There is no indication of a diverse cast or references to non-Western cultures.

How does Assassin in the Phonebook represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film examines conflicts between individuals and societal institutions such as workplaces. These struggles are framed through personal misfortunes rather than broader critiques of systems.

Does Assassin in the Phonebook include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not mention any characters with physical disabilities, mental health issues, or neurodivergence.

Present on Screen

Explores themes of social isolation and the fragility of individual reputation.
Provides a character-driven look at how professional environments can marginalize individuals.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of diverse racial, ethnic, or LGBTQ+ identities.
Does not challenge traditional gender hierarchies or provide female characters with significant roles.
Does not offer a systemic critique of the institutions it depicts.

Official Synopsis

Fernandel plays Albert, the unhappy brunt of jokes by his fellow office-workers who goes from the frying pan into the fire. Albert gets caught up in a robbery that also goes from bad to worse when it leads to several murders. Although he is not a killer and essentially innocent, there does not seem to be very much that Albert can do to convince others of the truth.

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