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Becket

Name: Becket
Director: Peter Glenville
Released: 1964
Duration: 148 min

Representation Score

0.6/10

Minimal

1964

PG-13

Director

Peter Glenville

Runtime

148 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Becket is a classical historical drama that emphasizes the preservation of period-specific hierarchies. The film centers on the clash between the Crown and the Cross, avoiding the subversion of social structures. While the film provides a sophisticated study of individual conscience versus institutional pressure, it does not engage with the overlapping aspects of identity. The narrative stays firmly rooted in the traditional social norms of the 12th century. Ultimately, the work serves as a prestige period piece that adheres to historical accuracy and patriarchal power dynamics, avoiding modern progressive restructuring.

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Category Breakdown

Does Becket have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The story follows strict conventions that assume everyone is straight or cisgender. There is no representation of queer subtext or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities.

How does Becket portray gender?

Minimal

Women in the film have limited influence and are sidelined. The plot revolves around a power struggle between men, specifically Henry II and Becket.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Becket?

Minimal

The cast is entirely Anglo-European, with no racial blending or inclusion of non-white perspectives within the historical context.

How does Becket represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film examines the tension between temporal and spiritual authority, focusing on duty and divine mandate rather than modern moral relativism.

Does Becket include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no depiction of visible or invisible disabilities. Characters are shown as physically and mentally vigorous, reflecting their social status.

Present on Screen

Offers a sophisticated study of individual conscience against institutional pressure.
Provides a nuanced look at the burden of institutional roles through the protagonist.

Limited or Absent

Lacks any representation of non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities or queer subtext.
Does not challenge the patriarchal structures of the medieval court or Church.
Includes no diverse racial perspectives or non-white characters.
Provides no visible or invisible disability representation.

Official Synopsis

Thomas Becket, Henry II's longtime advisor, finds his friendship with the debauched king corroding when he is unwillingly appointed as Archbishop of Canterbury in an attempt to gain absolute loyalty from the Church.

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