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What if...

Name: What if...
Director: Dallas Jenkins
Released: 2010
Duration: 111 min

Representation Score

1.1/10

Minimal

2010

Director

Dallas Jenkins

Runtime

111 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

What if... (2010) is a faith-based fantasy that serves primarily as a moral cautionary tale. The narrative structure uses a speculative visitation by an angel to critique a protagonist's choice to prioritize careerism over spiritual duty. The film reinforces traditionalist values and religious hierarchies. By framing the pursuit of material success as a mistake, the story promotes religious adherence and critiques modern, capitalistic pursuits of individual autonomy. Ultimately, the work lacks complexity in reflecting multiple aspects of identity. It operates within a narrow, conventional framework that prioritizes a singular religious worldview over diverse social or cultural perspectives.

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Category Breakdown

Does What if... have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The story focuses on traditional romantic relationships, such as a college sweetheart and a trophy fiancé. There are no non-traditional gender identities or narratives that challenge the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does What if... portray gender?

Limited

The plot emphasizes traditional gender roles, using the trophy fiancé cliché. The main conflict revolves around male professional ambition and spiritual crisis, centering a masculine perspective.

How racially and ethnically diverse is What if...?

Limited

The narrative centers on a single character's internal spiritual journey. There is no indication of a diverse cast, suggesting a focus on a conventional, Western-centric demographic.

How does What if... represent religion and culture?

Minimal

The film critiques secularism and materialism by prioritizing religious calling over business success. It promotes a singular religious morality rather than a pluralistic or secular framework.

Does What if... include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no information available regarding the depiction of physical, neurodivergent, or mental health conditions.

Present on Screen

The film provides a clear, focused narrative centered on a specific moral and spiritual conflict.

Limited or Absent

The reliance on the trophy fiancé cliché limits the depth and autonomy of female characters.
The narrative lacks racial and cultural diversity, focusing on a singular, Western-centric demographic.
The story reinforces traditional assumptions about gender without exploring diverse identities.

Official Synopsis

Fifteen years ago, Ben Walker made a decision to leave his college sweetheart and ultimately his faith, in order to pursue a lucrative business opportunity. Now with a high-paying career and a trophy fiancé, he is visited by an angel, who gives him a glimpse into what his life would look like had he followed his calling.

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