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The Half of It

The Half of It

Representation Score

7.0/10

Good

2020

PG-13

Director

Alice Wu

Runtime

104 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Alice Wu’s directorial debut is a sophisticated subversion of coming-of-age clichés. By focusing on the intersection of Asian-American heritage and queer identity, the film moves beyond the typical homogeneity of the genre. The narrative structure emphasizes emotional depth over conventional romantic clichés. It replaces the usual jock/popular girl archetypes with a focus on the intellectual and emotional work done by its female leads. Though the film does not include disability representation, its intentional approach to diverse identities makes it stand out. It offers a nuanced look at navigating identity within small-town social structures.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Half of It have LGBTQ+ representation?

Excellent

The film focuses on same-sex attraction and the complexities of queer intimacy. It avoids reducing LGBTQ+ identities to mere plot devices, instead breaking down traditional love triangles to highlight non-straight relationships.

How does The Half of It portray gender?

Excellent

Female characters drive the narrative with their ability to act and emotional intelligence. By emphasizing female friendship and inner lives, the film counters the male-dominated perspective often seen in coming-of-age stories.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Half of It?

Excellent

An Asian-American protagonist offers a unique look into ethnic identity. The story delves into the experiences of immigrant families and cultural expectations without resorting to simplistic stereotypes.

How does The Half of It represent religion and culture?

Good

The film explores the conflict between personal beliefs and traditional cultural traditions. It highlights how social hierarchies can hinder genuine human connections.

Does The Half of It include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no prominent depictions of visible or invisible disabilities serving as central character arcs.

Present on Screen

  • Exceptional portrayal of diverse identities, particularly Asian-American and queer perspectives.
  • Subverts traditional teen drama clichés by emphasizing emotional depth over romantic clichés.
  • Offers a nuanced, non-stereotypical exploration of the immigrant family experience.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks representation of visible or invisible disabilities among the main characters.

Official Synopsis

Shy, straight-A student Ellie is hired by sweet but inarticulate jock Paul, who needs help wooing the most popular girl in school. But their new and unlikely friendship gets tricky when Ellie discovers she has feelings for the same girl.

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