You are here:

My Name Is Joe

Name: My Name Is Joe
Director: Ken Loach
Released: 1998
Duration: 105 min

Representation Score

7.0/10

Good

1998

Director

Ken Loach

Runtime

105 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Ken Loach uses his expertise in social realism to deconstruct neoliberal structures and class struggle. The film frames individual struggles, such as addiction, as symptoms of institutional neglect rather than personal flaws. While it lacks broad representation of LGBTQ+ identities and non-cisgender perspectives, it provides a nuanced look at how economic systems affect human ability to act. It challenges the traditional 'provider' role and critiques the market-driven economy.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does My Name Is Joe have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The story focuses on a heterosexual relationship between Joe and Sarah, without engaging with LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender perspectives. It reflects the specific working-class setting.

How does My Name Is Joe portray gender?

Good

The film challenges traditional masculine stereotypes by showing Joe's inability to provide stability. Sarah stands out who play a significant role in driving the story and intelligence, working in community health.

How racially and ethnically diverse is My Name Is Joe?

Limited

The narrative centers on a predominantly white working-class population. It avoids treating this group as a monolithic norm by highlighting their systemic vulnerabilities and socioeconomic challenges.

How does My Name Is Joe represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film sharply criticizes Western capitalist institutions and oppressive state bureaucracies. It portrays addiction and family breakdown as systemic issues caused by economic hardship, rather than personal failings.

Does My Name Is Joe include disability representation?

Good

Joe’s battle with alcoholism explores invisible disabilities and mental health issues. The film avoids portraying these struggles as inspirational, focusing instead on the ongoing reality of chronic struggle.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional masculine stereotypes and the 'provider' role.
Provides a nuanced portrayal of addiction as a health issue, not a moral failing.
Offers a powerful critique of capitalist institutions and social welfare bureaucracies.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and non-cisgender perspectives.
Minimal racial and ethnic diversity within the specific regional setting.
Focuses narrowly on a predominantly white working-class population.

Official Synopsis

Two thirtysomethings, unemployed former alcoholic Joe and community health worker Sarah, start a romantic relationship in one of the toughest Glasgow neighbourhoods.

How are these scores produced? →