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The Last King

Name: The Last King
Director: Nils Gaup
Released: 2016
Duration: 99 min

Representation Score

0.5/10

Minimal

2016

Director

Nils Gaup

Runtime

99 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Last King is a traditional historical epic that emphasizes period-accurate realism over modern characters who reflect more than one aspect of diversity. The narrative structure reinforces medieval hierarchies, focusing on male-driven political struggles and ethnic homogeneity. While the film captures the historical tension between the monarchy and the Church, it does so through a lens of historical conflict rather than a deconstruction of power. The lack of progressive narrative interventions results in limited diversity. Ultimately, the film serves as a study of 13th-century Scandinavian social structures, emphasizing survival and lineage within a strictly defined historical context.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Last King have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film strictly follows 13th-century social norms and does not depict any non-straight relationships or same-sex intimacy. The story centers on royal lineage and traditional family structures.

How does The Last King portray gender?

Limited

Male warriors and royal claimants have significant roles in driving the story. Noblewomen appear but primarily serve as symbols of status within the established social hierarchy.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Last King?

Minimal

The casting reflects the ethnic reality of medieval Norway, depicting a largely homogeneous population focused on an internal civil war without any non-Nordic characters.

How does The Last King represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story explores the historical conflict between the monarchy and the Catholic Church, presenting the Church as a dominant historical institution rather than a modern systemic critique.

Does The Last King include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no portrayals of physical or mental disabilities. The narrative focuses on physical prowess and survival in a harsh environment without addressing characters navigating life with disabilities.

Present on Screen

Maintains high levels of regional and historical authenticity.
Effectively captures the tension between the monarchy and the Church.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of diverse gender identities and sexual orientations.
Provides minimal roles for women within the patriarchal setting.
Features a homogeneous cast with no racial or ethnic diversity.
Excludes portrayals of disability or neurodivergence.

Official Synopsis

Norway, 1204. A civil war between the birkebeiners —the king's men— and the baglers —supporters of the Norwegian aristocracy and the Church— ravages the country. Two men must protect a baby, the illegitimate son of King Håkon, who will be the future king and peacemaker, from those who want to kill him.

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