Combat Obscura
2018
No user ratings available yet
Representation score: 1.1 out of 10
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Retrograde
Representation Score
4.2/10
Fair
2022
RDirector
Matthew Heineman
Runtime
94 minutes
Average Rating
No ratings yetNew Showbiz Analysis
Retrograde disrupts the traditional Western-centric military narrative by centering Afghan ability to act and the partnership between Green Berets and local officers. This approach moves beyond simple historical documentation into a nuanced critique of systemic power. The film's strength lies in its ability to elevate non-Western actors, providing a cross-cultural perspective on the dissolution of a twenty-year conflict. This approach challenges the monolithic, heroic clichés often found in war documentaries. However, the film remains largely constrained by the gendered realities of its setting. The focus on combatant archetypes suggests a narrative primarily centered on male-dominated structures, limiting broader gender diversity.
Category Breakdown
Does Retrograde have LGBTQ+ representation?
The documentary focuses on military personnel and combatants within a specific geopolitical context. There is no information about the inclusion of LGBTQ+ narratives or identities.
How does Retrograde portray gender?
The narrative centers on male-dominated military structures. However, the focus on intimate relationships allows for an exploration of the emotional complexity and vulnerability of masculinity.
How racially and ethnically diverse is Retrograde?
The film demonstrates high ability to act by centering Afghan officers as primary subjects. This elevates non-Western perspectives and challenges traditional, Anglo-centric war chronicles.
How does Retrograde represent religion and culture?
The documentary engages with the deconstruction of Western interventionist frameworks. It prioritizes the lived reality of systemic collapse over idealized, patriotic narratives.
Does Retrograde include disability representation?
While war documentaries often address the physical and psychological toll of combat, there is no explicit confirmation of specific disability-focused arcs.
Present on Screen
- Centers Afghan officers as primary subjects rather than background figures.
- Challenges Anglo-centric war chronicles through cross-cultural ability to act.
- Deconstructs traditional, heroic war clichés by focusing on human interdependence.
Limited or Absent
- The narrative is heavily centered on male-dominated military structures.
- Lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or narratives.
- Does not explicitly confirm the inclusion of disability-focused arcs.
Official Synopsis
The story of the last months of the 20-year war in Afghanistan through the intimate relationship between American Green Berets and the Afghan officers they trained.
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