You are here:

Zygote

Name: Zygote
Director: Neill Blomkamp
Released: 2017
Duration: 23 min

Representation Score

6.3/10

Good

2017

Not Rated

Director

Neill Blomkamp

Runtime

23 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Zygote primarily functions as a high-concept horror film where survival takes precedence over identity-focused storytelling. Its strongest point lies in its subversion of traditional gender hierarchies, empowering female characters through competence and ability to act. However, the film lacks depth in representing multiple layers of identity. While the cast is diverse, the narrative does not use race or cultural differences as primary vehicles for exploration, and LGBTQ+ identities are absent. Ultimately, the film’s progressive value comes from challenging traditional hierarchies rather than a focused exploration of complex social identities.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Zygote have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film centers on a survivalist struggle in a tense environment. There is no clear presence of non-straight or non-cisgender identities or stories related to LGBTQ issues.

How does Zygote portray gender?

Good

Female characters like Victoria play key roles in the survival narrative. They show strong ability to act and intelligence, breaking away from traditional male-dominated leadership models.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Zygote?

Fair

The film showcases a diverse cast of survivors within a typical genre setup. However, it does not use actors of different races to challenge historical norms.

How does Zygote represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story dismantles Western social structures by placing characters in a lawless, post-apocalyptic world. It highlights situational ethics over established moral codes.

Does Zygote include disability representation?

Limited

Biological amalgamations serve as central antagonists in the plot. These entities act as plot devices rather than characters with ability to act or nuanced portrayals of disabilities.

Present on Screen

Empowers female characters to lead the survival narrative through their competence and ability to act, disrupting traditional gender hierarchies.
Features a diverse cast of survivors within the high-tension, survivalist setting.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of non-straight or non-cisgender identities or stories related to LGBTQ issues.
Does not use actors of different races to challenge historical norms.
Does not provide nuanced portrayals of neurodivergence or physical disability, using bodily alterations only for horror purposes.

Official Synopsis

The two remaining crew members of a mining operation in the Arctic Circle fight to survive against an alien creature.

How are these scores produced? →