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Now and Then

Name: Now and Then
Director: Lesli Linka Glatter
Released: 1995
Duration: 102 min

Representation Score

5.4/10

Fair

1995

PG-13

Director

Lesli Linka Glatter

Runtime

102 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Now and Then stands out as a character-driven exploration of female friendship, successfully shifting the focus away from male-centric narratives. The protagonists navigate their own conflicts with significant autonomy and intellectual depth. However, the film's reach is constrained by its narrow demographic focus. The setting and casting reflect a homogeneous suburban environment that lacks racial and ethnic diversity. While the film excels in representing female empowerment, it adheres to traditional straight relationships and does not include significant LGBTQ+ or disabled perspectives.

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Category Breakdown

Does Now and Then have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on straight relationships and does not include any queer subtext or non-cisgender identities in the character arcs.

How does Now and Then portray gender?

Good

The movie highlights female solidarity and empowerment, challenging traditional gender roles. The four main characters drive the story through their emotional intelligence and independence.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Now and Then?

Limited

The cast reflects a homogeneous social circle typical of 1970s Northern California. It lacks significant racial or ethnic diversity among the central characters.

How does Now and Then represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story examines the complexities of traditional family structures and domestic instability. It emphasizes personal loyalty and situational ethics over strict moral codes.

Does Now and Then include disability representation?

Minimal

The characters are portrayed within a neurotypical and able-bodied context. There is no meaningful depiction of physical or mental health disabilities.

Present on Screen

Highlighting female solidarity and empowerment as key narrative drivers.
Shifting the focus away from male-centric stories through emotional intelligence.
Examining complex interpersonal dynamics and female-led autonomy.

Limited or Absent

Increasing racial and ethnic diversity within the central cast.
Incorporating LGBTQ+ perspectives and non-cisgender identities.
Including meaningful representations of neurodivergent or physical disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Waxing nostalgic about the bittersweet passage from childhood to puberty, four childhood girlfriends — Teeny, Chrissy, Samantha and Roberta — recall the magical summer of 1970. During their walk down memory lane, they reconcile experiences with boys, secrets, bullies and more.

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