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The Pretty One

The Pretty One

Representation Score

3.2/10

Limited

2014

R

Director

Jenée LaMarque

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The film 'The Pretty One' succeeds in providing a platform for a Black female lead to explore complex themes of self-worth and identity. By centering a woman of color, the film avoids including someone from a minority group without giving them real depth and offers a more nuanced perspective on racial identity. However, the film remains tethered to conventional romantic comedy structures, prioritizing personal emotional resolution over any meaningful subversion of social hierarchies or systemic critiques. This results in a traditional narrative experience.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Pretty One have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on heterosexual relationships and does not include any non-binary gender identities or critiques of traditional gender norms. There is no representation of LGBTQ+ characters or challenges to the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does The Pretty One portray gender?

Fair

A female protagonist leads the emotional journey, offering a platform for female-led storytelling. However, the plot relies on traditional beauty standards, tying a character's worth to their appearance.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Pretty One?

Good

The film centers a Black female protagonist in Los Angeles, providing a nuanced look at identity and moving away from homogeneous casting norms. This helps avoid including someone from a minority group without giving them real depth and offers a more diverse perspective.

How does The Pretty One represent religion and culture?

Limited

The narrative operates within a standard Western framework focused on individual fulfillment. It lacks significant critiques of systemic social or religious institutions, focusing instead on individual experiences.

Does The Pretty One include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no visible or invisible disabilities portrayed as central to the narrative arc. No information is available regarding neurodivergence or physical disabilities.

Present on Screen

  • Meaningful centering of a Black female protagonist.
  • Exploration of identity through the lens of race and aesthetic standards.
  • Character-driven storytelling led by a female protagonist.

Limited or Absent

  • Lack of engagement with LGBTQ+ identities or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth characters.
  • Reliance on traditional, straight-centered romantic comedy clichés.
  • Absence of systemic or cultural critiques beyond individualistic self-improvement.

Official Synopsis

When her idolized twin sister Audrey dies in a car accident, Laurel decides to take her place. But, as she eases into the life she has always wanted, she must decide between continuing the lie or revealing herself.

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