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Make It Happen

Make It Happen

Representation Score

5.6/10

Fair

2008

PG-13

Director

Darren Grant

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Make It Happen delves into the conflict between personal identity and institutional expectations. The film effectively portrays Lauryn's fight to preserve her artistic integrity against gendered pressures from a male-dominated judging panel. Despite using typical dance genre clichés, the film offers a progressive perspective on individual empowerment. The shift from a rural to an urban environment symbolizes breaking free from rigid social structures. However, the film's exploration of diversity is somewhat constrained by genre conventions. While the cast is multi-ethnic and the theme of gender subversion is evident, the complexity of certain character identities remains unexplored.

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Category Breakdown

Does Make It Happen have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film showcases Dana, who supports Lauryn during a crisis by providing her with housing and emotional backing. Their relationship, though not explicitly labeled, offers a supportive dynamic outside traditional norms.

How does Make It Happen portray gender?

Good

Lauryn's journey highlights her resistance to patriarchal demands, particularly those related to performing more 'sensual' dance styles. Her struggle underscores the importance of maintaining physical autonomy and rejecting restrictive gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Make It Happen?

Fair

The film features a diverse cast including Tessa Thompson and Julissa Bermudez, set against the backdrop of Chicago's multicultural environment. This contrasts with Lauryn's rural origins, offering a rich tapestry of ethnic backgrounds.

How does Make It Happen represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative follows Lauryn's transition from a small town to an urban setting, emphasizing personal discovery and individual truth over traditional communal or family expectations.

Does Make It Happen include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no significant evidence regarding the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities in this film.

Present on Screen

  • The film successfully subverts traditional gendered performance expectations.
  • The protagonist's journey emphasizes female autonomy and resistance to restrictive gender roles.
  • The urban setting fosters a diverse and multi-ethnic social environment.

Limited or Absent

  • The film does not clearly confirm the queer identities of its characters.
  • There is no visible representation of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.
  • The depth of diverse supporting roles is not fully developed.

Official Synopsis

Embarking on a journey to fulfill her dreams as a dancer, a young girl discovers a new style of dance that will prove to be the source of both conflict and self-discovery.

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