You are here:

Bobbikins

Name: Bobbikins
Director: Robert Day
Released: 1959
Duration: 89 min

Representation Score

3.0/10

Limited

1959

Approved

Director

Robert Day

Runtime

89 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Bobbikins is a product of its time, adhering to the social structures and narrative conventions of 1950s cinema. The story centers on a conventional nuclear family that upholds established norms. The film lacks complexity in representing different aspects of identity, focusing instead on a male-driven comedic adventure. While it explores domestic instability, it does so through traditional gender roles and fantastical elements rather than nuanced character studies. Ultimately, the production reflects a mid-century approach to storytelling, prioritizing mainstream archetypes over diverse or subversive representation.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Bobbikins have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on a traditional nuclear family. There are no queer narratives or non-straight identities in the story.

How does Bobbikins portray gender?

Limited

The story revolves around male characters, particularly the father and infant. The wife's role seems limited to the home and the consequences of her husband's actions.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Bobbikins?

Limited

The narrative follows a typical mid-century domestic setting. It lacks diversity in casting and ethnic representation, favoring a homogeneous, Anglo-centric cast.

How does Bobbikins represent religion and culture?

Limited

The plot uses military and patriotic themes common to the era. Institutional friction is used humorously rather than critically.

Does Bobbikins include disability representation?

Limited

The central idea of a talking infant is a fantastical element. Mental instability is used mainly as a plot device for the main character.

Present on Screen

The film provides a clear, focused comedic adventure centered on a unique, fantastical premise.

Limited or Absent

The narrative relies on traditional gender roles with limited roles for female characters.
Mental instability is used as a comedic cliché rather than a nuanced depiction of disability.
The story lacks racial and ethnic diversity, following a homogeneous mid-century casting pattern.

Official Synopsis

This adventure follows the story of a young navy man, his wife and their baby son, Bobby, also known as Bobbikins. To his surprise, Dad discovers his son talks, not baby-talk or gibberish but has adult conversations with his father only. Bobbikins learns stock market tips and passes them to his Dad. After making a killing on the stock market, problems really begin. The dad is presumed mad, the government is after him, and the breakdown of relations between the young couple ensues. But there is hope.

How are these scores produced? →