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Harvey

Name: Harvey
Director: Henry Koster
Released: 1950
Duration: 104 min

Representation Score

3.7/10

Limited

1950

Director

Henry Koster

Runtime

104 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Set in the 1950s, the film reflects the social constraints of the time, lacking diverse representation of LGBTQ+ identities and racial diversity. However, it challenges the pathologization of neurodivergence and critiques oppressive social hierarchies. The film uses a gentle approach to masculinity and social interaction to highlight the flaws in rigid authority figures.

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Category Breakdown

Does Harvey have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex relationships.

How does Harvey portray gender?

Fair

The film passes the Bechdel test but maintains traditional gender roles. It challenges traditional masculinity by showing rigid authority figures as ineffective.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Harvey?

Minimal

The film's setting is homogeneous, featuring a predominantly white, upper-middle-class cast with little racial diversity.

How does Harvey represent religion and culture?

Good

The film critiques Western institutions and social hierarchies, celebrating a gentle rejection of elitism.

Does Harvey include disability representation?

Fair

The film portrays the protagonist's neurodivergence positively, emphasizing his unique perspective and granting him a significant role in driving the story.

Present on Screen

Challenges the medical establishment's approach to neurodivergence.
Critiques oppressive social hierarchies and elitism.
Highlights the ineffectiveness of rigid authority figures.

Limited or Absent

Lacks LGBTQ+ identities and non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth narratives.
Features a homogeneous cast with limited racial diversity.
Maintains traditional mid-century gender roles.

Official Synopsis

The story of Elwood P. Dowd who makes friends with a spirit taking the form of a human-sized rabbit named Harvey that only he sees (and a few privileged others on occasion also.) After his sister tries to commit him to a mental institution, a comedy of errors ensues. Elwood and Harvey become the catalysts for a family mending its wounds and for romance blossoming in unexpected places.

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