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The Professional

Name: The Professional
Director: Georges Lautner
Released: 1981
Duration: 108 min

Representation Score

3.8/10

Limited

1981

Not Rated

Director

Georges Lautner

Runtime

108 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

This film is a classic 1980s action-thriller that focuses on individual heroism rather than complex social issues. It revolves around a disgraced agent seeking revenge, emphasizing personal ability to act over broader societal critiques. While the story involves international settings and government corruption, these elements support the main character's journey rather than offering deeper social commentary. The film adheres to the conventions of its time, reinforcing typical character types. Overall, the film lacks diverse representation in gender, sexuality, and disability, resulting in a limited social landscape centered on a single character’s journey.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Professional have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or stories. The social setting is very traditional, focusing on conflicts between men.

How does The Professional portray gender?

Limited

The story follows a traditional gender structure where men have the main roles. Women play supporting roles without much influence or control over their situations.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Professional?

Limited

The film includes African characters mainly to move the plot forward. The portrayal of the African warlord is used to advance the mission but lacks detailed character development.

How does The Professional represent religion and culture?

Fair

The movie critiques the government by showing how it betrays its own agent. This criticism is based on personal revenge rather than a broader political context.

Does The Professional include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not show any characters with disabilities, visible or invisible. The characters are strong physically, and there is no exploration of mental or neurological differences.

Present on Screen

Provides a compelling critique of institutional reliability and government betrayal.
Focuses on personal honor and individual ability to act.

Limited or Absent

Lacks meaningful roles or depth for female characters.
Does not offer nuanced or comprehensive depictions of racial and ethnic identities.
Does not address LGBTQ+ identities or neurodivergent perspectives.

Official Synopsis

Josselin Beaumont, a French secret agent, is tasked with assassinating Njala, the president for life of Malawi in Africa. A shift in French policy means that assassinating Njala is no longer an option. But instead of recalling their agent, high-ranking officials deliberately sacrifice Beaumont by handing him over to the Malawian authorities. Arrested, tried, and imprisoned, he nevertheless manages to escape. Back in Paris after a two-year absence, he informs his superiors through Colonel Martin that he will fulfill his contract during Njala’s upcoming official visit to Paris between the 12th and 15th of this month, and that he has a few scores to settle with the D.G.S.E. The question is, should Beaumont be stopped or not?

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