You are here:

The Midwife

Name: The Midwife
Director: Martin Provost
Released: 2017
Duration: 117 min

Representation Score

7.5/10

Good

2017

Unrated

Director

Martin Provost

Runtime

117 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Martin Provost’s drama succeeds as a character study that elevates female intellect and professional authority. By centering the midwife's expertise, the film challenges traditional hierarchies that often sideline women in medical settings. However, the film’s scope is limited regarding broader social identities. It operates within a specific socio-cultural framework that prioritizes class and domesticity over multi-ethnic or LGBTQ+ representation. Ultimately, the film is a sophisticated exploration of female autonomy. It trades broad demographic breadth for a deep, nuanced look at how women navigate institutional and personal friction.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The Midwife have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The story focuses on heterosexual relationships and maternal connections. There are no explicit representations of LGBTQ+ identities or non-traditional gender roles.

How does The Midwife portray gender?

Good

The film centers on the professional and psychological depth of women. It contrasts the personalities and professional lives of Claire and Béatrice.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Midwife?

Fair

The story emphasizes class differences and the socioeconomic struggles of the working class. It does not include a diverse cast representing multiple ethnicities.

How does The Midwife represent religion and culture?

Good

The film critiques rigid social and medical institutions. It highlights the tension between individual reproductive rights and established social hierarchies.

Does The Midwife include disability representation?

Fair

There are no prominent portrayals of physical or neurodivergent disabilities. The narrative focuses on the psychological and social challenges faced by the characters.

Present on Screen

Strong portrayal of women's professional and psychological depth.
Nuanced exploration of female characters' experiences.
Effective critique of restrictive social and medical institutions.

Limited or Absent

Lack of explicit LGBTQ+ or non-traditional gender representation.
Limited diversity within the cast.
Absence of disability-focused narratives or character arcs.

Official Synopsis

Claire is a midwife and has devoted her life to others. At a moment when she is preoccupied by the imminent closure of the maternity clinic where she works, her life is further turned upside down when Béatrice, her father's former mistress, turns up on the scene. Béatrice is a capricious and selfish woman, Claire's exact opposite.

How are these scores produced? →