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Speakeasy

Name: Speakeasy
Director: Benjamin Stoloff
Released: 1929
Duration: 62 min

Representation Score

1.0/10

Minimal

1929

Passed

Director

Benjamin Stoloff

Runtime

62 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Speakeasy is a conventional period drama that closely follows the norms of the late 1920s. While it avoids some common pitfalls of the era, it lacks the complexity needed for a progressive score. The film's main strength is its female protagonist, who demonstrates professional competence and ability to act. However, it fails to represent racial, LGBTQ+, or disability diversity. Ultimately, the film serves as a standard drama centered on professional betrayal and athletic competition, offering little in the way of social critique or diverse perspectives.

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Category Breakdown

Does Speakeasy have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any characters with LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex relationships. It follows a traditional storyline focused on professional and athletic pursuits.

How does Speakeasy portray gender?

Fair

Alice Woods stands out as a proactive journalist who drives the plot forward. She challenges passive female stereotypes by convincing her editor to investigate a story, although her broader impact on gender roles is not fully explored.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Speakeasy?

Minimal

The cast is entirely Anglo-Saxon, with no evidence of diverse racial backgrounds. Given the time period, the narrative likely reflects the homogeneity of casting practices in the 1920s.

How does Speakeasy represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story centers on individual morality and professional ethics within journalism and sports. It uses Western institutional norms without questioning them.

Does Speakeasy include disability representation?

Minimal

The narrative does not feature any characters dealing with physical, sensory, or neurodivergent conditions.

Present on Screen

Alice Woods, the female protagonist, displays a significant role in driving the story and professional competence.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight-centered narratives.
There is a total absence of racial and ethnic diversity within the cast and setting.
The story provides no visibility for characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Newspaper staffer Alice Woods persuades the editor to allow her to chase a story, that of prizefight contender Martin, who is about to fight for the championship. However, he does not know that his manager is preparing to double-cross him.

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