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It’s Only Make Believe

Name: It’s Only Make Believe
Director: Arild Østin Ommundsen
Released: 2013
Duration: 91 min

Representation Score

8.0/10

Good

2013

Not Rated

Director

Arild Østin Ommundsen

Runtime

91 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Arild Østin Ommundsen’s drama centers on a socially stigmatized female protagonist, challenging traditional domestic archetypes. The film delves into the psychological burden of reintegration and the fragility of social stability. However, it lacks demographic diversity, with minimal representation of racial or LGBTQ+ identities. The work excels in character development and social critique, though it narrows its focus to a specific Scandinavian context.

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Category Breakdown

Does It’s Only Make Believe have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film focuses on social reintegration rather than explicit LGBTQ+ identities. It disrupts the idea of a quiet life for those who don't fit in easily.

How does It’s Only Make Believe portray gender?

Good

Jenny is a complex, independent character who doesn't fit the typical nurturing mother role. The film explores her struggle between her maternal duties and the stigma of her criminal past.

How racially and ethnically diverse is It’s Only Make Believe?

Fair

As a Scandinavian drama, the film lacks diverse racial representation. Instead, it focuses on the disruption of idealized, homogeneous family structures.

How does It’s Only Make Believe represent religion and culture?

Good

The story critiques Western social institutions by focusing on a character rejected by the legal system. It explores the tension between personal truth and institutional authority.

Does It’s Only Make Believe include disability representation?

Fair

The film explores the psychological impact of incarceration and trauma. While there are no physical disabilities mentioned, the protagonist's mental state drives the main narrative.

Present on Screen

Presents a flawed, independent female protagonist who challenges traditional gender roles.
Explores the struggles of reintegration and social marginalization in depth.
Examines the tension between personal morality and institutional authority.

Limited or Absent

Could include more visible racial and ethnic diversity within its Scandinavian setting.
Needs more explicit representation or subtext regarding LGBTQ+ identities.
Should address specific neurodivergent or physical disabilities in addition to psychological trauma.

Official Synopsis

After serving 10 years in prison for murder, Jenny returns to society. She wants to live a quiet life and resume her responsibilities as a mother, but soon shadows from the past start to appear.

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