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The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Name: The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Director: Wallace Worsley
Released: 1923
Duration: 113 min

Representation Score

5.6/10

Fair

1923

Passed

Director

Wallace Worsley

Runtime

113 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

This 1923 adaptation successfully humanizes underrepresented figures, especially through its nuanced portrayal of Quasimodo and the Romani identity of Esmeralda. By focusing on these 'outsiders,' the film challenges the homogeneity of its time period. However, the film remains limited by the melodramatic conventions of the era. It lacks LGBTQ+ representation and adheres to traditional gender roles that often cast women as vulnerable.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Hunchback of Notre Dame have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses solely on heterosexual relationships and does not depict any LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex intimacy.

How does The Hunchback of Notre Dame portray gender?

Fair

Esmeralda is often shown as a symbol of purity and vulnerability, yet she actively drives the plot's moral conflicts, challenging typical gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Hunchback of Notre Dame?

Good

The story centers around Esmeralda, a Romani woman, offering significant ethnic representation. Her outsider status creates tension with the dominant society of 15th-century France.

How does The Hunchback of Notre Dame represent religion and culture?

Good

The film criticizes religious authority through Claude Frollo, portraying the clergy as a corrupt and hypocritical force rather than a moral beacon.

Does The Hunchback of Notre Dame include disability representation?

Good

Quasimodo is portrayed with deep emotional complexity and moral independence. His physical condition highlights social exclusion rather than being a mere horror figure.

Present on Screen

Offers complex, empathetic portrayals of physical disability and social exclusion.
Features a Romani protagonist, challenging the era's typical protagonist homogeneity.
Provides a sharp critique of religious authority and systemic corruption.

Limited or Absent

Does not include any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth characters.
Maintains traditional gender roles that often depict women as vulnerable.

Official Synopsis

In 15th century France, a gypsy girl is framed for murder by the infatuated Chief Justice, and only the deformed bellringer of Notre Dame Cathedral can save her.

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