The Geena Davis Inclusion Quotient
The Geena Davis Inclusion Quotient (GD-IQ) is a software tool developed by the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, in collaboration with Google and the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. It utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze films and television content in order to provide insights into gender representation and portrayal.
The GD-IQ analyzes audio and video content and applies computer algorithms to identify and categorize characters based on their gender, occupation, and other attributes. It can assess factors such as screen time, speaking time, and the roles and occupations of characters. By analyzing a large dataset of media content, the GD-IQ can generate statistics and insights on gender representation trends across different genres, time periods, and cultural contexts.
The tool aims to raise awareness about gender disparities in media and help content creators, industry professionals, and researchers understand the extent and impact of gender representation in films and television. By providing concrete data and analysis, the GD-IQ encourages discussions and actions that promote more balanced and inclusive storytelling.
“GD-IQ is an extraordinary tool that gives us the power to uncover unconscious gender bias with a depth that had never been possible to date,” said Geena Davis. “Media that is more representative of our society not only fosters a more inclusive industry, but by increasing the number and diversity of female leaders and role models on screen, content creators are affecting the ambitions and career aspirations of young girls and young women everywhere. If she can see it, she can be it.”
The GD-IQ reveals that even when female characters are included, male characters receive significantly more screen time and more speaking time. Our key findings for 2015 show that:
- Male characters receive about two times the amount of screen time as female characters (28.5% compared to 16.0%)
- Male characters speak two times as often as female characters (28.4% compared to 15.4%)
The data indicates that solving gender inequity in film is far more complex than simply adding more female characters. When they are present, female characters in film are seen and heard far less often than male characters.
Additionally, the study also examined the profitability of female-led films, busting the myth that female-led features don’t perform well at the box office. We find that:
- Films with female leads made 15.8% more on average than films with male leads ($89,941,176 compared to $75,738,095)
- Films featuring male and female co-leads earned 23.5% more on average than films with solo male or solo female leads ($108,317,073 compared to an average of $82,839,635)
The GD-IQ algorithms analyze the film and provide statistical data and insights. Here are some potential findings that the GD-IQ might reveal:
- Gender Balance: The GD-IQ may determine that the film has a gender imbalance, with male characters dominating the screen time and speaking time compared to female characters.
- Occupations: The GD-IQ might identify that the male characters in the film are predominantly portrayed as adventurers, explorers, or leaders, while the female characters are mostly depicted in supportive or secondary roles.
- Dialogue Patterns: The GD-IQ can analyze the content and conversations between characters. It may reveal that male characters have more dialogue and engage in meaningful discussions, while female characters' dialogue revolves more around personal relationships or exposition.
- Stereotypes: The GD-IQ might identify instances where female characters are subjected to stereotypes or limited to certain archetypes, such as the love interest or the damsel in distress.
An example of a recent film that gained attention for its approach to gender representation:
"Little Women" (2019) Directed by: Greta Gerwig is a film adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel, directed by Greta Gerwig. The film received critical acclaim for its storytelling, performances, and its exploration of female characters and their aspirations in the 19th century.
Using the Geena Davis Inclusion Quotient (GD-IQ) to analyze "Little Women," here are some potential insights it could provide:
- Gender Balance: The GD-IQ might reveal that the film prominently features female characters, as the story revolves around the lives of the March sisters.
- Occupations: The GD-IQ could indicate that the film showcases a range of occupations and interests pursued by the female characters, including writing, acting, teaching, and charitable work.
- Dialogue Patterns: The GD-IQ might find that the film emphasizes the complex and meaningful conversations among the female characters, highlighting their individual voices, ambitions, and struggles.
- Agency and Empowerment: The GD-IQ could identify instances where the female characters in "Little Women" demonstrate agency, make decisions, and challenge societal expectations, reflecting themes of empowerment and self-determination.
While this example highlights a film that has been positively regarded for its approach to gender representation, it's important to note that the GD-IQ would provide more detailed insights based on its analysis. The GD-IQ aims to provide data-driven observations to spark discussions and encourage the industry to strive for more equitable and inclusive storytelling.
Using the Geena Davis Inclusion Quotient (GD-IQ) or similar tools to analyze "The Dark Knight," here are some hypothetical insights it could potentially provide:
- Gender Balance: The GD-IQ might find that the film has a significant gender imbalance, as it primarily focuses on male characters, with Batman being the central protagonist.
- Occupations: The GD-IQ could reveal that the film predominantly showcases male characters in positions of power and authority, such as Batman, Commissioner Gordon, and the main villains. Female characters, such as Rachel Dawes or Selina Kyle/Catwoman in other Batman films, may have supporting roles or serve as love interests.
- Dialogue Patterns: The GD-IQ might indicate that male characters have more significant and dialogue-driven roles, engaging in discussions related to crime-fighting, justice, and personal motivations. Female characters may have fewer lines or conversations that revolve around their relationships with male characters.
- Representation and Stereotypes: The GD-IQ could identify instances where female characters in "The Dark Knight" might conform to certain gender stereotypes, such as being the damsel in distress or playing secondary roles compared to male characters.
By providing such insights, the GD-IQ enables filmmakers, producers, and other industry professionals to critically evaluate gender representation in their content and make informed decisions to improve gender equity and inclusivity. It encourages discussions, awareness, and actions to address gender disparities and promote more balanced and diverse storytelling in films and television.