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We Have Always Lived in the Castle

Name: We Have Always Lived in the Castle
Director: Stacie Passon
Released: 2019
Duration: 96 min

Representation Score

7.1/10

Good

2019

Not Rated

Director

Stacie Passon

Runtime

96 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The film excels in deconstructing social norms, especially through its radical subversion of gender hierarchies. By focusing on female autonomy, it transforms the domestic sphere into a sanctuary of independence. However, the work is constrained by its narrow demographic focus. The absence of racial diversity and explicit LGBTQ+ identities limits a more inclusive narrative, maintaining a homogeneous, isolated setting. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its portrayal of the 'outsider' status. It depicts the rejection of mainstream social institutions as a means of psychological preservation.

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Category Breakdown

Does We Have Always Lived in the Castle have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film centers on a strong bond between two women, suggesting a queer interpretation of their relationship within a private, feminine-only environment.

How does We Have Always Lived in the Castle portray gender?

Excellent

The narrative challenges traditional gender roles by emphasizing feminine sovereignty. The sisters have significant control over their lives, prioritizing personal stability over external pressures.

How racially and ethnically diverse is We Have Always Lived in the Castle?

Minimal

Set in a secluded 1960s Vermont estate, the story focuses solely on the Blackwood family, lacking racial or ethnic diversity among the main characters.

How does We Have Always Lived in the Castle represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film critiques traditional Western communal institutions through the lens of mob mentality. It portrays the sisters' ritualistic lifestyle as a form of resistance against oppressive social structures.

Does We Have Always Lived in the Castle include disability representation?

Fair

Uncle Julian's wheelchair highlights his physical disability, but his condition contributes to the family's stagnant atmosphere without providing him much ability to act or development.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gender roles by emphasizing feminine sovereignty.
Provides a sophisticated critique of oppressive communal authority and mob mentality.
Elevates the outsider perspective, framing social rejection as psychological preservation.

Limited or Absent

Lacks racial and ethnic diversity within the primary cast and setting.
Misses opportunities for explicit LGBTQ+ representation beyond subtextual coding.
Uses disability primarily for atmospheric effect rather than character's ability to drive the story.

Official Synopsis

In Shirleyville, Vermont, during the sixties, sisters Merricat and Constance, along with their ailing uncle Julian, confined to a wheelchair, live isolated in a big mansion located on the hill overlooking the town, tormented by the memories of a family tragedy occurred six years ago. The arrival of cousin Charles will threaten the fragile equilibrium of their minds, haunted by madness, fear and superstition.

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