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A Very Bad Friend

Name: A Very Bad Friend
Director: Varante Soudjian
Released: 2019
Duration: 94 min

Representation Score

7.4/10

Good

2019

Director

Varante Soudjian

Runtime

94 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

A Very Bad Friend is a character-driven comedy that disrupts social hierarchies. It centers on Mika navigating the gap between his criminal past and a wealthy future, highlighting the instability of social institutions and the complexities of social reintegration. However, the film's representation remains somewhat narrow. It is heavily male-centric and lacks nuanced engagement with LGBTQ+ or specific ethnic identities. While it effectively critiques class structures, it risks relying on neurodivergence for comedic chaos.

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Category Breakdown

Does A Very Bad Friend have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film explores the chaotic relationship between Mika and Putin, focusing on unconventional companionship but without explicitly identifying them as LGBTQ+ or developing clear romantic arcs.

How does A Very Bad Friend portray gender?

Fair

The story revolves around male-dominated conflict, with a wealthy woman serving as a catalyst for Mika's social mobility. However, the narrative primarily delves into Mika's struggle with traditional masculine roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is A Very Bad Friend?

Fair

The plot contrasts the underrepresented criminal class with the wealthy elite, suggesting a diverse social landscape. Specific ethnic casting details are not provided.

How does A Very Bad Friend represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative critiques established capitalist hierarchies and social institutions, treating marriage and societal rules with skepticism. It emphasizes personal ability to act over traditional morality.

Does A Very Bad Friend include disability representation?

Fair

The character Putin is portrayed as unpredictable and crazy, which suggests a depiction of mental instability. However, this portrayal risks using neurodivergence as a comedic plot device.

Present on Screen

Deconstructs traditional social hierarchies and class structures.
Prioritizes personal ability to act over rigid societal rules.
Explores the complexities of social reintegration and mobility.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit LGBTQ+ representation or queer-coded character arcs.
Relies on neurodivergence as a comedic plot device.
Focuses heavily on male-dominated conflict and perspectives.

Official Synopsis

Mika, a little crook, took a quick tour of the prison, where he got to know "Putin", a crazy and unpredictable detainee. As soon as his sentence has been served, he decides to start from scratch and start his life over again. As he prepares to marry the daughter of a wealthy businessman, his past catches up with him: Putin arrives without warning! Mika will quickly realize that we do not easily get rid of such a ball ...

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