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Heaven Knows What

Heaven Knows What

Representation Score

7.2/10

Good

2015

R

Director

Benny Safdie, Josh Safdie

Runtime

97 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Heaven Knows What is a gritty exploration of survival that challenges traditional power structures. By focusing on a underrepresented protagonist, it questions the effectiveness of societal institutions. While the film lacks diverse LGBTQ+ and ethnic representation, it provides a nuanced look at addiction and neurodivergence. Its raw, realistic portrayal of disenfranchised individuals elevates its progressive stance.

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Category Breakdown

Does Heaven Knows What have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film centers on a heterosexual relationship between Angel and Christian, and does not include any non-binary or LGBTQ+ narratives. It does not explicitly challenge the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does Heaven Knows What portray gender?

Fair

Angel is the main driver of the plot, showing intelligence and resilience in navigating the urban environment. The film presents masculinity as erratic and less important compared to the protagonist's role in driving the story.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Heaven Knows What?

Fair

The narrative emphasizes socioeconomic status rather than focusing on the intersection of race and ethnicity. While the cast includes a variety of ethnicities, these identities are not central to the plot.

How does Heaven Knows What represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film critiques Western institutions and capitalism, portraying urban infrastructure as a hostile force. Survivalist behaviors are shown as necessary responses to systemic neglect.

Does Heaven Knows What include disability representation?

Good

Addiction and neurodivergence are portrayed as lived realities, not just plot devices. The depiction of mental and physical instability is integrated into the characters' identities without being used for spectacle.

Present on Screen

  • Centers the female protagonist's intelligence and resilience in driving the plot.
  • Offers a nuanced, non-idealized depiction of addiction and neurodivergence.
  • Critiques Western institutions and capitalism through survivalist behaviors.

Limited or Absent

  • Includes limited representation of non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities or LGBTQ+ narratives.
  • Does not prioritize diverse ethnic identities as central to the story.
  • Focuses on a traditional, heterosexual romantic relationship.

Official Synopsis

A young heroin addict roams the streets of New York to panhandle and get her next fix, while her unstable boyfriend drifts in and out of her life at random.

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