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Male and Female

Name: Male and Female
Director: Cecil B. DeMille
Released: 1919
Duration: 116 min

Representation Score

4.1/10

Fair

1919

Director

Cecil B. DeMille

Runtime

116 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Male and Female is a period drama that delves into the disruption of social hierarchies. While it offers some depth regarding female empowerment and the temporary shift in class power dynamics, it still adheres to the demographic limitations of its time. The film excels in exploring the complexities of female social influence and temporary shifts in power during a crisis. However, it falls short in providing diverse representation and lacks multi-layered complexity.

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Category Breakdown

Does Male and Female have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any identifiable LGBTQ+ characters or storylines. Romantic relationships are presented within traditional, binary frameworks, emphasizing conventional courtship and social scandal.

How does Male and Female portray gender?

Fair

The story centers around the moral struggles and social influence of its female lead. She grapples with societal expectations and personal desires, challenging typical portrayals of passive femininity.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Male and Female?

Minimal

The film showcases a predominantly white cast, reflecting early 20th-century cinematic standards. There is no notable non-white representation within the main storyline.

How does Male and Female represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative examines the vulnerability of Western social systems through a shipwreck scenario. It emphasizes the maintenance of social status rather than critiquing capitalist structures.

Does Male and Female include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature any characters with visible or invisible disabilities. Such characters are not used as key figures in the story or given significant roles.

Present on Screen

The film offers a nuanced portrayal of female empowerment and the balance between personal desires and societal expectations.
It presents a compelling temporary shift in power dynamics during a crisis, highlighting the potential of the working class.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks meaningful racial and ethnic diversity, featuring a predominantly white cast.
There is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or characters with disabilities.
The narrative does not provide a systemic critique of Western institutions, focusing instead on traditional social standing.

Official Synopsis

When an aristocratic family and their servants are shipwrecked, the butler becomes their ruler.

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