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Bean

Name: Bean
Director: Mel Smith
Released: 1997
Duration: 89 min

Representation Score

2.2/10

Limited

1997

PG-13

Director

Mel Smith

Runtime

89 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Bean is a character-driven comedy that follows traditional storytelling methods. The film relies on a single, archetypal performance that focuses on physical humor rather than social commentary. The narrative does not intentionally explore overlapping aspects of identity. It stays within conventional boundaries, where the protagonist's quirks drive the story without questioning existing social hierarchies. Overall, the film adopts a conventional approach to storytelling, providing limited meaningful representation for underrepresented groups or diverse viewpoints.

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Category Breakdown

Does Bean have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

There are no LGBTQ+ characters or stories in the film. It focuses solely on the protagonist's journey without exploring any queer identities.

How does Bean portray gender?

Limited

The story centers around a male protagonist, with female characters playing minor roles. The film does not give female characters much influence over the main storyline.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Bean?

Limited

The cast is mostly made up of a homogenous Western group. Even though the setting is in Los Angeles, the film does not address racial diversity as a significant part of the story.

How does Bean represent religion and culture?

Limited

The narrative emphasizes personal chaos rather than a critique of societal structures. Humor comes from personal mistakes rather than challenging Western institutions or social norms.

Does Bean include disability representation?

Fair

Mr. Bean's behavior suggests he may have neurodivergent traits, such as social awkwardness and unconventional communication. However, these characteristics are used mainly for comedic effect rather than showing the complexities of living with such traits.

Present on Screen

The protagonist's socially awkward behavior offers a unique, albeit comedic, perspective on non-traditional communication styles.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks meaningful representation of LGBTQ+ identities and diverse racial backgrounds.
Female characters lack influence and play minor roles within the slapstick framework.
Neurodivergent traits are used primarily for comedic purposes rather than nuanced, respectful portrayals of lived experiences.

Official Synopsis

Childlike Englishman, Mr. Bean, is an incompetent watchman at the Royal National Gallery. After the museum's board of directors' attempt to have him fired is blocked by the chairman, who has taken a liking to Bean, they send him to Los Angeles to act as their ambassador for the unveiling of a historic painting to humiliate him. Fooled, Mr. Bean must now successfully unveil the painting or risk his and a hapless Los Angeles curator's termination.

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