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Going Places

Name: Going Places
Director: Bertrand Blier
Released: 1974
Duration: 117 min

Representation Score

4.3/10

Fair

1974

Director

Bertrand Blier

Runtime

117 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Going Places is a study of social disruption that challenges traditional gender roles while focusing narrowly on a specific demographic. By highlighting Marie-Ange's pursuit of sexual fulfillment, the film gives her a significant role in driving the story, contrasting with the volatile male characters. However, the film remains rooted in a homogeneous French context, offering limited racial or LGBTQ+ representation. This lack of diverse perspectives keeps the social critique centered on class and gender issues. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its aggressive dismantling of bourgeois stability and traditional morality, making it a potent, albeit narrow, exercise in postmodern rebellion.

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Category Breakdown

Does Going Places have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film focuses on heterosexual relationships and traditional romance, lacking prominent LGBTQ+ characters or stories that question the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does Going Places portray gender?

Good

The story emphasizes female desire and independence, especially through Marie-Ange, who is shown as a sexually confident leader rather than a passive figure.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Going Places?

Minimal

The cast is predominantly made up of people from similar backgrounds, reflecting a specific 1970s French social context. There is no intentional use of diverse ethnic ensembles or actors from different backgrounds.

How does Going Places represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film breaks down Western middle-class institutions and traditional social manners. It portrays anti-social behavior as a form of liberation against established moral rules.

Does Going Places include disability representation?

Minimal

The narrative does not focus on visible or invisible disabilities and does not use disability as a central theme or plot device.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gender roles by emphasizing female sexual autonomy and leadership.
Offers a sharp, nihilistic critique of Western middle-class institutions and social norms.
Breaks down established moral and religious structures through a lens of personal freedom.

Limited or Absent

Lacks racial and ethnic diversity, presenting a largely homogeneous cast.
Provides minimal representation or narrative focus for LGBTQ+ identities.
Does not address disability as a thematic or character-driven element.

Official Synopsis

Two whimsical, aimless thugs harass and assault women, steal, murder, and alternately charm, fight, or sprint their way out of trouble. They take whatever the bourgeoisie holds dear, whether it’s cars, peace of mind, or daughters. Marie-Ange, a jaded, passive hairdresser, joins them as lover, cook, and mother confessor. She’s on her own search for seemingly unattainable sexual pleasure.

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