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Before the Fall

Name: Before the Fall
Director: Byrum Geisler
Released: 2017
Duration: 100 min

Representation Score

5.5/10

Fair

2017

Unrated

Director

Byrum Geisler

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Before the Fall successfully challenges typical romantic comedy conventions by placing a queer relationship at the core of its narrative. By focusing on Ben Bennet, an affluent attorney, the film delves into themes of social standing and identity. The film excels in using class tension to explore complex social hierarchies. It contrasts the refined lifestyle of high society with the everyday struggles of a blue-collar worker, providing a rich backdrop for personal and social conflicts. However, the film's scope seems constrained by its setting and focus. The emphasis on traditional Southern social circles may limit racial diversity, and the male-centric romance leaves female characters underdeveloped.

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Category Breakdown

Does Before the Fall have LGBTQ+ representation?

Excellent

The film features a gay protagonist named Ben Bennet, who plays a significant role in the story. His identity is integrated into his professional life, avoiding including someone from a minority group without giving them real depth and fostering a deeper connection with the audience.

How does Before the Fall portray gender?

Fair

The story revolves around a romantic relationship between two male characters. While it deviates from traditional patriarchal structures, there is limited information about the roles and development of female characters.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Before the Fall?

Fair

The setting in southern Virginia's genteel social circles suggests a potential for demographic homogeneity. The narrative does not explicitly detail the racial makeup of the cast.

How does Before the Fall represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative explores social class differences by contrasting an affluent lawyer with a working-class welder. This setup highlights social stratification and personal struggles.

Does Before the Fall include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not explicitly mention physical or neurodivergent disabilities. However, it touches on alcohol use, which might hint at a broader exploration of substance abuse and mental health issues.

Present on Screen

Features a gay protagonist who is professionally successful and socially prominent.
Explores social class differences through the contrast of an affluent lawyer and a working-class welder.
Challenges conventional romantic comedy clichés by focusing on a queer relationship.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from more detailed exploration of racial and ethnic diversity among the cast.
Needs to provide more visibility and development for female characters.
Should consider addressing physical and neurodivergent disabilities more explicitly.

Official Synopsis

It's a classic case of opposite attraction: Handsome Ben Bennet is a gay, affluent, stylish attorney at the top of the genteel social set in southern Virginia, while Lee Darcy is a rough-hewn welder with a secret that he nightly tries to blot out with an excess of liquor.

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