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How I Became a Superhero

Name: How I Became a Superhero
Director: Douglas Attal
Released: 2020
Duration: 101 min

Representation Score

7.4/10

Good

2020

TV-MA

Director

Douglas Attal

Runtime

101 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

How I Became a Superhero is a well-executed genre film that mirrors the diverse reality of modern France. By featuring a multi-ethnic cast, it avoids the pitfalls of homogenous stereotypes and integrates varied identities into its superhero narrative. The film gives female characters significant roles, ensuring they are active participants rather than passive observers. However, the film falls short in providing explicit LGBTQ+ representation and detailed portrayals of neurodivergence or physical disabilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does How I Became a Superhero have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film centers on power dynamics and tensions between mortals and superheroes. It doesn't include explicit same-sex relationships or identity-focused storylines, sticking to typical genre conventions.

How does How I Became a Superhero portray gender?

Fair

Callista and other female characters play crucial roles and have significant influence throughout the film. These characters avoid the damsel-in-distress cliché, offering a balanced mix of strength and competence.

How racially and ethnically diverse is How I Became a Superhero?

Good

Set in Paris, the film showcases a diverse cast representing a modern European city. It presents a range of ethnicities without focusing on racial conflicts.

How does How I Became a Superhero represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story questions the ethics of power by portraying superhuman abilities as commodities. This highlights the corruption of institutions and the misuse of authority.

Does How I Became a Superhero include disability representation?

Fair

Disability is represented metaphorically, with mortality serving as a stand-in for various forms of impairment. However, the film lacks specific, character-driven narratives that highlight neurodivergence or physical disabilities.

Present on Screen

Features a diverse cast that reflects the multicultural nature of a modern European city.
Gives female characters significant roles and influence.
Subtly critiques social stratification by examining the commodification of power.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit LGBTQ+ representation or identity-focused storylines.
Doesn't offer nuanced, character-driven portrayals of neurodivergence or physical disabilities.
Uses metaphors for disability rather than depicting lived experiences.

Official Synopsis

Paris 2020. While superheroes have assimilated into the Parisian society, they discover a new drug that gives themselves personal superpowers to mere mortals. Lieutenants Moreau and Schaltzmann are investigating the case with the support of two ex-superheroes, Monte Carlo and Callista. They'll do whatever it takes to dismantle the traffic. But Moreau's past resurfaces, and the investigation becomes more complicated.

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