You are here:

The Butterfly Swing

Name: The Butterfly Swing
Director: Søren Kragh-Jacobsen
Released: 2020
Duration: 102 min

Representation Score

2.2/10

Limited

2020

Director

Søren Kragh-Jacobsen

Runtime

102 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The Butterfly Swing is a traditional period drama that emphasizes historical atmosphere and emotional realism. It reflects the demographic homogeneity of its setting rather than challenging broader societal power structures. The narrative explores the secrets of a long-standing marriage and the resulting family conflicts, maintaining fidelity to the social constraints of its time. Ultimately, the film focuses on the complexities of family life, without seeking to disrupt conventional social hierarchies or engage with contemporary discussions of diversity.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The Butterfly Swing have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film follows a traditional setup typical of its mid-20th-century setting, with no depiction of same-sex relationships or non-traditional gender identities.

How does The Butterfly Swing portray gender?

Fair

Female characters are given substantial psychological depth and emotional complexity. However, the story sticks to traditional period roles without challenging existing gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Butterfly Swing?

Limited

The film showcases a predominantly European cast, reflecting its specific historical and geographical context. It does not feature a diverse cast or use actors from different ethnic backgrounds.

How does The Butterfly Swing represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story centers around preserving family memories and bonds, without offering critiques of Western or capitalist systems.

Does The Butterfly Swing include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no prominent depictions of physical or neurodivergent disabilities. The drama remains centered on the psychological tensions of the main characters.

Present on Screen

Provides significant psychological depth to its female characters.
Explores emotional interiority and memory in depth.
Maintains a strong historical atmosphere and emotional realism.

Limited or Absent

Does not include representations of non-traditional gender identities or same-sex relationships.
Features a cast that is primarily European and lacks diversity.
Adheres to traditional period roles without subverting gender hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

The story is centered on the stubborn farmer Ernst and his wife Louise who are celebrating their 50th anniversary with a traditional Danish gold wedding for friends and family. However, the family carries several secrets and Ernest holds on to the biggest one of them all. Through one long joyous, intoxicating, surprising, gripping and melancholic night, the truths creep out and the family is put to the ultimate test.

How are these scores produced? →