You are here:

Le Havre

Name: Le Havre
Director: Aki Kaurismäki
Released: 2011
Duration: 94 min

Representation Score

7.6/10

Good

2011

Not Rated

Director

Aki Kaurismäki

Runtime

94 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Le Havre is a profound exploration of narrative structure that prioritizes the dignity of underrepresented individuals. It excels by bringing the refugee experience to the forefront, transforming it from a distant tragedy into a complex, central human reality. The film's strength lies in its nuanced engagement with the lasting impacts of colonialism and its critique of institutional authority. By using the port setting, it explores the intersection of global migration and local identity. While the film lacks explicit LGBTQ+ representation, its adept handling of racial ability to act and its critique of bureaucratic systems sets it apart from typical dramas.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Le Havre have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not focus on LGBTQ+ identities or queer character arcs. Instead, it centers on the socioeconomic and racial aspects of the protagonist's journey.

How does Le Havre portray gender?

Fair

Women are portrayed as capable and essential members of the working-class community, avoiding stereotypes. However, the story does not explicitly challenge traditional gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Le Havre?

Excellent

The film features a Somali refugee as the main character, challenging Western-centric protagonist models. It highlights the ability to act of characters of color, emphasizing migration as a central human issue.

How does Le Havre represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The story critiques modern Western institutions, showing bureaucracy as impersonal and dehumanizing. It emphasizes human compassion and solidarity over strict adherence to laws.

Does Le Havre include disability representation?

Fair

The film addresses human frailty through the shoeshiner's ailing wife, avoiding sensationalism and treating these struggles with quiet dignity.

Present on Screen

Highlights the exceptional ability to act of the central Somali refugee protagonist.
Critiques dehumanizing Western bureaucracy and state authority effectively.
Avoids exploiting clichés when depicting the fragility of human life.

Limited or Absent

Could include more representation of LGBTQ+ identities and non-straight character arcs.
Could further challenge traditional gender roles within the social context.

Official Synopsis

In the French harbor city of Le Havre, an elderly shoeshiner with an ailing wife crosses paths with a young African refugee pursued by the police for deportation.

How are these scores produced? →