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The Last Word

The Last Word

Representation Score

6.5/10

Good

2017

R

Director

Mark Pellington

Runtime

108 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The film is a character-driven study that prioritizes female empowerment and personal narrative. It successfully challenges age-related stereotypes by presenting a powerful, intellectually driven female protagonist who refuses passivity. However, the film lacks significant diversity in terms of both LGBTQ+ representation and ethnic diversity. Additionally, it focuses more on individual empowerment than on broader systemic issues.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Last Word have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film highlights a deep, platonic friendship between two women. However, it lacks explicit representation of non-heterosexual romantic relationships.

How does The Last Word portray gender?

Good

The story emphasizes the ability to act and intellect of the female protagonist. She is portrayed as a strong businesswoman who takes control of her professional life and legacy.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Last Word?

Fair

The cast is predominantly white and Anglo-Saxon. While there is some diversity, the central storylines remain within a largely homogeneous social framework.

How does The Last Word represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative explores themes of mortality and the subjective nature of truth. It stays focused on personal experiences without delving deeply into anti-religious or anti-capitalist sentiments.

Does The Last Word include disability representation?

Fair

A character's impending medical condition serves as a catalyst for personal growth. The film presents terminal illness as an existential reality rather than a source of mockery.

Present on Screen

  • Challenges age-related stereotypes with a strong, intellectually driven female protagonist.
  • Highlights the importance of women's ability to drive the story and professional reinvention.
  • Explores complex themes of mortality and subjective truth.

Limited or Absent

  • Could include more explicit LGBTQ+ representation or non-heterosexual romantic relationships.
  • Should feature a more diverse cast with greater ethnic representation.
  • Could benefit from a broader focus on systemic or cultural critiques.

Official Synopsis

A retired businesswoman – who tries to control everything around her – decides to write her own obituary. A young journalist takes up the task of finding out the truth, and the result is a life-altering friendship.

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