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88

Name: 88
Director: April Mullen
Released: 2015
Duration: 88 min

Representation Score

5.6/10

Fair

2015

Not Rated

Director

April Mullen

Runtime

88 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The film stands out by challenging traditional social structures, especially through its nuanced portrayal of queer identity and the deconstruction of the nuclear family. By focusing on a female protagonist's struggle for independence, it avoids many common gender clichés. However, the narrative's impact is somewhat limited due to a lack of racial and ethnic diversity. The story mainly revolves around a specific, homogeneous demographic, which restricts a more layered exploration of identity. Ultimately, the film is a character-driven exploration of self-realization that prioritizes internal psychological landscapes over broader social diversity.

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Category Breakdown

Does 88 have LGBTQ+ representation?

Excellent

The film focuses on the protagonist's journey towards understanding her non-straight identity. Her attraction to a female peer is a central part of the emotional storyline.

How does 88 portray gender?

Good

Women's empowerment drives both the emotional and physical progression of the plot. The film challenges the nurturing maternal stereotype through a complex, conflict-ridden relationship between mother and daughter.

How racially and ethnically diverse is 88?

Limited

The story primarily focuses on a relatively homogeneous demographic within Melbourne. There is a lack of broad racial or ethnic diversity in the main characters.

How does 88 represent religion and culture?

Good

The story deconstructs the idealized nuclear family by depicting the home as a place of emotional disconnect. It emphasizes individual identity over traditional social or familial norms.

Does 88 include disability representation?

Minimal

The film delves into intense psychological states and trauma. However, there is no specific representation of visible or invisible disabilities.

Present on Screen

Nuanced integration of LGBTQ identity as a core emotional element rather than a secondary plot point.
Effective challenge of the nurturing maternal stereotype through complex female-led relationships.
Strong emphasis on women's ability to drive the narrative.

Limited or Absent

Lack of racial and ethnic diversity within the Melbourne setting.
Limited demographic breadth in the cast and primary narrative focus.

Official Synopsis

A young woman comes to in a roadside diner with no idea where she is or how she got there. Split between two timelines, she gets taken on a violent journey as she seeks out the person responsible for her lover's death.

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