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Some Kind of Wonderful

Name: Some Kind of Wonderful
Director: Howard Deutch
Released: 1987
Duration: 95 min

Representation Score

3.9/10

Limited

1987

PG-13

Director

Howard Deutch

Runtime

95 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Some Kind of Wonderful is a nuanced teen comedy that challenges social hierarchies while staying true to its 1980s setting. Its strength lies in its refusal to follow traditional gender stereotypes, particularly through the powerful role of its female lead. However, the film is limited by a lack of diverse representation. The social landscape is largely homogeneous, and the narrative sticks to conventional romantic structures and assumptions about straight relationships. Overall, the film effectively critiques class-based social gatekeeping, even if it does not fully address broader issues of identity and diversity.

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Category Breakdown

Does Some Kind of Wonderful have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any non-straight identities or same-sex relationships. It operates within a framework that assumes everyone is straight and cisgender.

How does Some Kind of Wonderful portray gender?

Good

The film features a tomboy character named Watts who rejects traditional beauty standards and drives the emotional core of the story. She plays a significant role in moving the plot forward.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Some Kind of Wonderful?

Limited

The film's cast reflects a homogeneous social environment typical of 1980s teen movies. Racial and ethnic diversity is not used as a central part of the story.

How does Some Kind of Wonderful represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story criticizes classism by portraying wealthy characters as superficial social gatekeepers. However, it remains tied to a traditional romantic ending.

Does Some Kind of Wonderful include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not prominently feature characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities that influence the narrative.

Present on Screen

The character of Watts challenges traditional beauty standards and performative femininity.
The narrative provides a strong role for its female lead, making her a central driver of the plot.
The film offers a meaningful critique of classism and the superficiality of social hierarchies.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities and non-straight characters.
The social environment is racially and ethnically homogeneous.
The story adheres to traditional romantic resolutions.

Official Synopsis

Keith Nelson, an artsy high school outcast, tries to land a date with popular girl Amanda Jones with some help from his tomboy best friend, Watts. However, Watts realizes she likes Keith as more than just a friend and tries to convince him to stop pursuing Amanda. Matters are further complicated when Keith's invitation draws the ire of Amanda's rich yet snobby ex-boyfriend, Hardy Jenns, who makes plans to get even.

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