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Strive

Name: Strive
Director: Robert Rippberger
Released: 2019
Duration: 82 min

Representation Score

4.9/10

Fair

2019

TV-14

Director

Robert Rippberger

Runtime

82 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Strive provides a realistic and authentic look at a Black family dealing with socioeconomic pressures in Harlem. By highlighting Kalani’s influence and the experiences of people of color, the film moves away from typical Western narratives. However, the narrative focuses heavily on traditional themes of American success and individual achievement. This emphasis on overcoming adversity through personal effort might limit the film's ability to critically examine the systemic structures causing the family's struggles. While the film offers strong racial and gendered empowerment, it lacks visible representation for LGBTQ+ identities or characters with disabilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does Strive have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film doesn't include any explicit mentions of LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight identities. The story focuses on family survival and economic advancement in an urban environment.

How does Strive portray gender?

Fair

Kalani is the main character who drives the plot forward, showing strong control over her actions and decisions. The story centers around a female-led household, shifting the focus away from traditional male leadership.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Strive?

Excellent

By focusing on a Black family in Harlem, the film highlights a non-white perspective. Casting Danny Glover adds to the authenticity and cultural relevance of the story.

How does Strive represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story combines criticism of systemic issues with traditional ideas of meritocracy. It emphasizes personal resilience and optimism as part of the broader American experience.

Does Strive include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no information about characters with physical, cognitive, or mental health disabilities.

Present on Screen

Strong racial authenticity through its Harlem setting and Black-centered cast.
Empowering female protagonist who drives the narrative through intelligence and control.
Nuanced social realism highlighted by the casting of Danny Glover.

Limited or Absent

Lack of visible LGBTQ+ representation or non-straight identities.
No characters representing physical or neurodivergent disabilities.
Narrative focuses on traditional meritocracy rather than systemic critique.

Official Synopsis

Kalani (Joi Campbell), is a teenager living in Harlem with her older brother Jacob, and her younger sister, Bebe, while her mother struggles to make ends meet. Her college counselor Mr. Rose (Danny Glover) sees great promise in her educational future. As Kalani's siblings get caught in a myriad of hardships, Kalani teeters on the brink of ruin as she struggles to keep both her family and her dream intact. Strive reminds us that hard work, optimism, and perseverance, in the face of overwhelming adversity, is the essence of what it is to be American.

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