You are here:

Swell

Name: Swell
Director: Justin Lee
Released: 2019
Duration: 97 min

Representation Score

4.0/10

Limited

2019

Director

Justin Lee

Runtime

97 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Swell follows a traditional dramatic structure centered on familial reconciliation and legacy. The narrative is driven by a female protagonist fulfilling a dying patriarch's wish, providing a clear central arc but adhering to conventional storytelling clichés. While the film includes some elements of inclusion through its cast and female-led premise, it lacks depth in identity-based political frameworks. The focus remains on kinship and the reconnection of a broken family unit rather than social subversion. Ultimately, the film functions as a character-driven drama that prioritizes emotional continuity over the deconstruction of social hierarchies or diverse cultural perspectives.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Swell have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include explicit LGBTQ+ characters or narratives that challenge the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender. The story centers on a family reunion between siblings and a grandfather.

How does Swell portray gender?

Fair

A female protagonist leads the story through her personal journey and actions. However, it is unclear whether the film challenges or reinforces traditional gender roles within the family.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Swell?

Fair

The inclusion of Kuali'i Wittman in the cast suggests potential ethnic diversity. However, the narrative does not center around race or systemic identity as a primary theme.

How does Swell represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story emphasizes traditional Western values of family duty and respect for elders. It focuses on preserving the nuclear family rather than deconstructive cultural themes.

Does Swell include disability representation?

Minimal

A dying grandfather serves as a catalyst for the plot. It is unclear if terminal illness is portrayed with real character's ability to drive the story or used solely as a narrative device.

Present on Screen

The film features a female protagonist who drives the narrative through her own actions.
The cast includes Kuali'i Wittman, suggesting potential for ethnic diversity within the ensemble.

Limited or Absent

The narrative lacks visible LGBTQ+ representation or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities.
The plot relies on traditional Western values of family duty rather than exploring diverse cultural perspectives.
There is no evidence of characters of color driving the systemic narrative or central themes.

Official Synopsis

A young woman embarks on a road trip to find her younger Brother who she hasn't seen in 18 years at the request of her dying Grandfather.

How are these scores produced? →