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Cicada

Name: Cicada
Director: Kieran Mulcare, Matthew Fifer
Released: 2021
Duration: 94 min

Representation Score

6.4/10

Good

2021

Director

Kieran Mulcare, Matthew Fifer

Runtime

94 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Cicada stands out as an intimate character study that avoids including someone from a minority group without giving them real depth by focusing on bisexual identity and interracial romance. The film explores how personal history and identity intersect through the lens of a summer romance. While the film excels in representing LGBTQ+ and racial diversity, it remains centered on emotional vulnerability rather than dismantling traditional gender roles. The narrative depth comes from the intertwining of Sam's racial identity and personal trauma. Overall, Cicada is a noteworthy independent film that challenges typical romantic narratives through its intentional focus on diverse identities.

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Category Breakdown

Does Cicada have LGBTQ+ representation?

Excellent

The film focuses on Ben, a bisexual protagonist going through his coming-out journey. This storyline offers a detailed look at a demographic often sidelined in queer cinema.

How does Cicada portray gender?

Good

The narrative emphasizes queer intimacy rather than challenging traditional gender roles. It serves mainly as a character study highlighting emotional vulnerability.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Cicada?

Good

Sam, a man of color, is a key figure in the film. His identity is closely tied to the central romance and his personal growth.

How does Cicada represent religion and culture?

Good

The story emphasizes emotional authenticity and personal recovery. It prioritizes personal truth and situational understanding over strict religious or institutional morals.

Does Cicada include disability representation?

Minimal

No specific physical, neurodivergent, or mental health disabilities are mentioned. Characters experience significant emotional struggles, but disability representation is not included.

Present on Screen

By centering a bisexual protagonist, the film offers a nuanced and necessary exploration of sexual orientation.
The combination of Sam's racial identity and personal trauma enriches the romance significantly.
The film avoids including someone from a minority group without giving them real depth by making queer identity the emotional heart of the narrative.

Limited or Absent

The film does not actively challenge traditional gender roles or masculinity.
There is no explicit representation of physical or neurodivergent disabilities in the narrative.

Official Synopsis

Ben is a young bisexual man. He comes out to the world and develops an intense relationship with Sam, a man of color struggling with deep wounds of his own. As the summer progresses and their intimacy grows, Ben's past crawls to the surface.

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