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By the Law of Change, or The Thicker the Better

Name: By the Law of Change, or The Thicker the Better
Director: Halfdan Nobel Roede
Released: 1911
Duration: 26 min

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Representation Score

1.4/10

Minimal

1911

Director

Halfdan Nobel Roede

Runtime

26 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

This early Norwegian silent film operates strictly within the social and narrative conventions of 1911. The plot centers on the volatility of romantic relationships, particularly infidelity and reconciliation within a traditional marriage framework. While the film offers a rare historical glimpse into early cinematic storytelling, it lacks diverse representation. The narrative reinforces traditional social hierarchies rather than challenging them, using period-typical clichés for variety performances.

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Category Breakdown

Does By the Law of Change, or The Thicker the Better have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses solely on heterosexual marital dynamics and infidelity. There are no queer identities or same-sex relationships depicted in the plot.

How does By the Law of Change, or The Thicker the Better portray gender?

Limited

Women play significant roles in managing domestic conflicts and dealing with unfaithful spouses. However, the story remains tied to traditional domestic hierarchies and romantic resolutions.

How racially and ethnically diverse is By the Law of Change, or The Thicker the Better?

Limited

The cast is primarily Norwegian, with an Egyptian dance performance suggesting the use of exoticized clichés common in early 20th-century variety shows.

How does By the Law of Change, or The Thicker the Better represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story emphasizes the restoration of traditional Western family values and social norms, functioning as a social comedy that explores established customs.

Does By the Law of Change, or The Thicker the Better include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no visible or invisible disabilities portrayed as central to the character arcs or the plot progression.

Present on Screen

Women in the cast take active, unconventional roles in managing domestic disputes.
Provides a rare historical look at early Norwegian cinematic storytelling and social mores.

Limited or Absent

The film relies on exoticized performance clichés rather than authentic ethnic representation.
The narrative lacks queer presence, focusing entirely on heterosexual marital structures.
The story reinforces traditional social hierarchies instead of subverting them.

Official Synopsis

A romance comedy about marriage, friendship, infidelity, separation and reunion. The film is one of the oldest Norwegian feature films completely preserved.

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