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Dangerous Liaisons

Name: Dangerous Liaisons
Director: Stephen Frears
Released: 1988
Duration: 119 min

Representation Score

4.3/10

Fair

1988

Director

Stephen Frears

Runtime

119 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Dangerous Liaisons is a sophisticated exploration of systemic power and social decay. It excels in its portrayal of gender dynamics, where the female protagonist uses her intellect to navigate and manipulate a patriarchal world. However, the film's adherence to historical period constraints limits its representation of LGBTQ+, racial, and ethnic diversity. The narrative remains centered on a homogeneous, heterosexual aristocracy. Ultimately, the film's progressive elements come from its critique of institutional morality rather than its demographic inclusiveness.

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Category Breakdown

Does Dangerous Liaisons have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film focuses on a heterosexual relationship and does not include explicit representations of LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex pairings.

How does Dangerous Liaisons portray gender?

Excellent

The Marquise de Merteuil challenges traditional gender roles by using her intelligence to dominate a patriarchal society. She actively manipulates men, defying expectations of passive femininity.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Dangerous Liaisons?

Minimal

The cast predominantly features white actors, reflecting the historical homogeneity of 18th-century French aristocracy. The film adheres to period constraints without introducing diverse character types.

How does Dangerous Liaisons represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The narrative critiques Western institutions by depicting the aristocracy as morally corrupt and predatory. It employs moral relativism to question the stability of historical social structures.

Does Dangerous Liaisons include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature any prominent depictions of physical or neurodivergent disabilities that play a significant role in the plot.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gender roles through the intelligent and assertive actions of the Marquise de Merteuil.
Provides a deep critique of the moral corruption within established Western aristocratic institutions.
Explores intricate power dynamics and the dismantling of social hierarchies.

Limited or Absent

Does not include representations of LGBTQ+ identities, focusing instead on traditional gendered interactions.
Maintains a lack of racial and ethnic diversity, adhering to the historical homogeneity of the era.
Does not depict physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

In 18th century France, Marquise de Merteuil asks her ex-lover Vicomte de Valmont to seduce the future wife of another ex-lover of hers in return for one last night with her. Yet things don’t go as planned.

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