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Life as It Should Be

Life as It Should Be

Representation Score

4.4/10

Fair

2020

Director

Ruud Schuurman

Runtime

108 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Life as It Should Be is a localized character study that focuses on disrupting domestic expectations. It excels in subverting traditional archetypes, especially those related to masculinity and the sanctity of the nuclear family. However, the film lacks depth in representing diverse identities and backgrounds. It remains centered in a specific social context without broader representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does Life as It Should Be have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include explicit LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight relationships. It centers on a heterosexual relationship and the breakdown of a traditional family structure.

How does Life as It Should Be portray gender?

Fair

The story challenges traditional masculine stereotypes by depicting Pieter as an unstable individual who chooses personal freedom over traditional roles. He rejects the role of the stable provider.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Life as It Should Be?

Limited

The narrative follows a conventional demographic pattern without showing a diverse cast. The setting and character names indicate a localized European social environment.

How does Life as It Should Be represent religion and culture?

Good

The film questions the idealized image of the nuclear family by emphasizing individual pursuits over community duties. It critiques traditional Western values and domestic stability.

Does Life as It Should Be include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no information about the portrayal of physical, neurodivergent, or mental health conditions in this work.

Present on Screen

  • Challenges traditional masculine stereotypes by showing a man who prioritizes personal autonomy over traditional roles.
  • Provides a critique of the idealized nuclear family through themes of individualistic pursuits.

Limited or Absent

  • Does not explicitly represent LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight relationships.
  • Shows no evidence of racial or ethnic diversity within the narrative.

Official Synopsis

Immediately after the birth of their first child, Iris' friend Pieter confesses that he never wanted this child, has been having an affair for a year and will soon be leaving for Africa with his new love.

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