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The Great Lie

Name: The Great Lie
Director: Edmund Goulding
Released: 1941
Duration: 108 min

Representation Score

3.7/10

Limited

1941

Director

Edmund Goulding

Runtime

108 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Great Lie is a complex exploration of social structures that challenges traditional views on marriage stability. Despite its demographic limitations, the film offers progressive value through its intricate narrative and the empowerment of its female lead. The film's strength lies in its challenge to traditional gender roles and its exploration of moral relativism. The protagonist uses strategic thinking to reclaim control over her life, defying the passive expectations of women during that era. However, the production remains rooted in the socioeconomic privilege of its time. The lack of racial, ethnic, or LGBTQ+ diversity reflects the narrow, homogeneous lens of early 20th-century high society.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Great Lie have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film follows the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender. It does not include any non-traditional gender identities or same-sex relationships.

How does The Great Lie portray gender?

Good

The main character plays a significant role in driving the story through strategic thinking and action, rather than passive behavior.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Great Lie?

Minimal

The film features a predominantly white cast reflecting an upper-class setting. It does not include diverse ethnic backgrounds, focusing instead on a culturally homogenous elite.

How does The Great Lie represent religion and culture?

Good

The story questions rigid traditional Western institutions like marriage and social norms, suggesting a more flexible moral stance.

Does The Great Lie include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no visible portrayals of physical or neurodivergent disabilities among the main characters.

Present on Screen

The female lead plays a significant role in driving the story through strategic thinking and action.
The narrative challenges traditional gender roles and feminine passivity.
The film explores nuanced moral relativism over absolute moral truths.

Limited or Absent

The cast lacks racial and ethnic diversity, remaining culturally homogeneous.
There is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-traditional gender identities.
The film lacks depictions of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

After a newlywed's husband apparently dies in a plane crash, she discovers that her rival for his affections is pregnant with his child.

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