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On the Tip of the Tongue

Name: On the Tip of the Tongue
Director: Jean-Marie Degèsves
Released: 1976
Duration: 90 min

Representation Score

4.9/10

Fair

1976

Director

Jean-Marie Degèsves

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

On the Tip of the Tongue is a character-driven exploration of class and sensory awakening. It succeeds in subverting traditional gender dynamics by positioning the female lead as a figure of significant influence and autonomy. However, the film remains limited by its narrow social scope. The narrative is centered on a homogeneous provincial setting, lacking racial or LGBTQ+ diversity. Ultimately, the film finds its strength in exploring individual ability to act against the backdrop of rigid social structures, even if its demographic representation is conventional for its era.

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Category Breakdown

Does On the Tip of the Tongue have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The story focuses on a heterosexual relationship between a teenager and an older woman. It does not include explicit LGBTQ+ identities or challenge assumptions about straight relationships.

How does On the Tip of the Tongue portray gender?

Good

Catherine is a strong, mysterious figure who disrupts traditional gender roles. The male lead acts as an observer, challenging the usual dominant male pursuit cliché.

How racially and ethnically diverse is On the Tip of the Tongue?

Limited

The film seems to focus on a homogeneous social environment. There is no indication of a diverse cast within this provincial drama.

How does On the Tip of the Tongue represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative emphasizes individual sensory experiences rather than religious or communal guidance. It explores personal truth outside of typical provincial social norms.

Does On the Tip of the Tongue include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no information regarding characters with physical, neurodivergent, or mental health disabilities.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gender roles by centering female influence and mystery.
Explores themes of individual sensory experience over institutional norms.
Offers a nuanced look at social class distinctions through character dynamics.

Limited or Absent

Lacks racial and ethnic diversity within the cast.
Does not feature explicit LGBTQ+ representation or identities.
Provides no visible representation of characters with disabilities.

Official Synopsis

The love story between a withdrawn and taciturn teenager and a lonely woman of 20 years older. An endearing painting of an awakening to sensuality, against the backdrop of everyday life of the small provincials: Fernand, fifteen the age of stealthy glances, lies and infinite dreams is a solitary, observant, different boy from other teenagers of his age while being so close to them. Locked in his room, he collects pictures of beautiful naked actresses to drown his boredom. His desire will come true in the presence of Catherine, a rich and mysteriously lonely woman next door. As a worker's son, withdrawn and taciturn, will discover a world that is new to him. He watches, spies, observes the comings and goings of the body of hers who, in certain circumstances ignores him. Through their encounters and helping jealousy, this almost filial love will turn into an irresistible physical attraction.

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