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The First Grader

Name: The First Grader
Director: Justin Chadwick
Released: 2010
Duration: 103 min

Representation Score

6.7/10

Good

2010

PG-13

Director

Justin Chadwick

Runtime

103 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film stands out for its authentic portrayal of a predominantly Black community, challenging the typical white savior narrative. However, it maintains a traditional focus on masculinity and lacks representation of non-binary gender identities or same-sex relationships. Ultimately, the film’s strength lies in its nuanced post-colonial critique and its portrayal of the Kenyan people as active agents in their intellectual liberation.

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Category Breakdown

Does The First Grader have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on a traditional biography and does not include any non-binary gender identities or same-sex relationships.

How does The First Grader portray gender?

Fair

The central plot revolves around the male protagonist, Wesley Achong, with limited involvement from female characters.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The First Grader?

Excellent

The film features an almost entirely Black cast, which centers the Kenyan community and highlights their ability to act in the face of colonial history.

How does The First Grader represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative addresses systemic inequalities and the ongoing impact of colonial structures, framing the fight for education as a struggle against historical oppression.

Does The First Grader include disability representation?

Fair

The film examines the disability of illiteracy, treating it with dignity and focusing on empowerment rather than ridicule.

Present on Screen

Features an almost entirely Black cast, providing authentic racial representation.
Centers the Kenyan community, disrupting the white savior cliché.
Addresses the disability of illiteracy with dignity and respect.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from including more diverse gender identities and same-sex relationships.
Narrative ability to act is heavily focused on the male protagonist.
Does not challenge traditional gender hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

The true story of an 84 year-old Kenyan villager and ex Mau Mau freedom fighter who fights for his right to go to school for the first time to get the education he could never afford.

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