You are here:

Figures of Speech

Name: Figures of Speech
Director: Ari Levinson
Released: 2016
Duration: 93 min

Representation Score

5.2/10

Fair

2016

TV-14

Director

Ari Levinson

Runtime

93 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Figures of Speech offers a character-driven look at identity through the lens of competitive forensics. The film highlights the active role of young individuals as they navigate self-actualization and performance. The documentary's strength lies in its focus on a niche subculture that allows for diverse personal expressions. By emphasizing the fluidity of identity, the film aligns with progressive storytelling traditions. However, the film lacks specific evidence regarding disability representation. While the broad geographic scope suggests racial diversity, the narrative does not explicitly detail specific demographic or identity-based milestones.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Figures of Speech have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The coming-of-age story naturally explores the development of non-straight identities. Though specific intimate scenes between same-sex partners are not shown, the film emphasizes self-expression which supports this exploration.

How does Figures of Speech portray gender?

Fair

Participants use performance to navigate and potentially challenge traditional gender roles. They actively drive their own personal growth rather than passively following societal norms.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Figures of Speech?

Fair

The film follows a group of students from various regions, suggesting a diverse mix of American youth. This wide geographic range implies a representative cross-section of young competitors.

How does Figures of Speech represent religion and culture?

Fair

The documentary shifts focus away from traditional Western institutions by highlighting a specialized, meritocratic community. It prioritizes individual truth and personal interpretation over strict moral codes.

Does Figures of Speech include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no specific mention of characters with visible or invisible disabilities within the narrative.

Present on Screen

Highlights the active role of young individuals navigating self-actualization.
Provides a platform for diverse personal expressions through performance.
Explores identity through a unique, meritocratic subculture.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit evidence regarding the representation of disabilities.
Does not provide specific details on same-sex intimacy or LGBTQ+ milestones.
Specific racial and ethnic casting details are not clearly defined.

Official Synopsis

Figures of Speech is a feature-length documentary that follows a group of high school students from all over the country as they vie for glory in the little-known world of competitive acting, otherwise known as Speech or Forensics. It is a coming-of-age story wrapped inside a quirky sub-culture competition doc, that will remind you what it feels like to be on the edge of adulthood, fighting to become whoever it is you’re meant to be.

How are these scores produced? →