You are here:

The Secret Handshake

Name: The Secret Handshake
Director: Howard Klausner
Released: 2015
Duration: 100 min

Representation Score

0.9/10

Minimal

2015

TV-G

Director

Howard Klausner

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The Secret Handshake operates within a conventional sociological framework, prioritizing the reinforcement of traditional masculine identity. The narrative structure focuses on the acquisition of male competencies and developmental milestones rather than challenging social norms. Because the film centers on gender-segregated socialization, it lacks the complexity needed to address diverse identities. The thematic emphasis on 'what it takes to be a man' suggests a story rooted in established social hierarchies rather than their disruption.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The Secret Handshake have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not depict any non-traditional gender identities or narratives that question the assumption that everyone is straight. The story focuses solely on traditional masculine development.

How does The Secret Handshake portray gender?

Limited

The narrative centers around men and boys learning together, reinforcing traditional masculinity. It does not challenge or subvert established gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Secret Handshake?

Minimal

There is no explicit evidence of a diverse cast or non-white protagonists. The film's themes often default to homogeneous social structures.

How does The Secret Handshake represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story emphasizes the transmission of generational values and traditional social institutions. It does not critique Western or patriarchal systems.

Does The Secret Handshake include disability representation?

Minimal

The film provides no information regarding characters with visible or invisible disabilities. There is no evidence of neurodivergent individuals taking control of their own lives.

Present on Screen

The film offers a clear, focused exploration of traditional masculine development and character building.

Limited or Absent

The narrative lacks depth in addressing diverse identities and fails to include queer identities or non-traditional gender perspectives.
The focus on traditional social structures limits the portrayal of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
There is a notable absence of representation for characters with disabilities or neurodivergent traits.

Official Synopsis

Men and boys learn together what it takes to be a man.

How are these scores produced? →