Is The Nice Guys woke?
Movie · Released May 20, 2016
The Nice Guys has a wokeness score of 1/10, which we rate as Not Woke. No political or woke messaging whatsoever. Focuses entirely on story, characters, fun, or escapism.
2016 releases average 3.7/10. See wokeness trends
Key points
- Environmental conspiracy subplot functions as plot device without ideological push
- No diversity quotas or identity-focused messaging in casting or themes
- Un-PC humor and attitudes emphasize entertainment over social commentary
Wokeness analysis
The Nice Guys is a straightforward neo-noir buddy comedy set in 1977 Los Angeles, centering on two private investigators unraveling a murder and conspiracy plot. The story incorporates a subplot about anti-pollution activism and corporate cover-ups involving the auto industry, but this serves purely as a narrative device to drive the mystery and action rather than delivering any ideological message or social commentary. The film features no prominent representation of marginalized groups, no lectures on identity politics, feminism, or systemic issues, and maintains a cynical, irreverent tone with casual profanity, violence, and period-appropriate attitudes that prioritize entertainment and character dynamics. Reviews highlight its defiance of modern sensitivities, focusing on humor, chemistry between leads, and escapism through 1970s sleaze and slapstick. Any environmental elements are historical fiction integrated organically without dominating or preaching, keeping the emphasis on story and fun.
Plot
In 1977 Los Angeles, down-on-his-luck private eye Holland March and enforcer Jackson Healy team up to investigate the apparent death of a porn star and the disappearance of activist Amelia, uncovering a larger conspiracy involving the auto industry, government corruption, and an experimental film exposing pollution cover-ups. Blending action, comedy, and noir elements, the mismatched duo navigates murders, chases, and personal foibles with help from March's sharp teenage daughter, ultimately exposing corporate malfeasance while highlighting their evolving partnership amid the seedy underbelly of the era.
Analyzed by AI on November 5, 2026