You are here:

Soekarno

Soekarno

Representation Score

6.6/10

Good

2013

Director

Hanung Bramantyo

Runtime

137 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Soekarno is a powerful film that successfully shifts the historical perspective away from Western-centric views towards an Indonesian-centric one. By centering the indigenous population, it provides a necessary disruption of colonial-centric storytelling. However, the film remains tied to the social hierarchies of its period, maintaining traditional gender roles and lacking representation for LGBTQ+ identities or disability. Its impact lies in its critique of colonial power dynamics, while staying within the conventional social frameworks of the mid-20th century.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Soekarno have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film reflects the social structures of the mid-20th century and does not include narratives or identities that challenge the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does Soekarno portray gender?

Fair

Women in the film are primarily shown in supportive or domestic roles. While the film offers nuanced portrayals of women involved in the movement, it does not significantly challenge traditional gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Soekarno?

Excellent

The story centers an Indonesian cast and places the indigenous population at the forefront of their own liberation struggle against colonial rule. This shifts the historical perspective away from a Western-centric view.

How does Soekarno represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film criticizes Western imperialism and portrays the Dutch administration as oppressive. Islamic elements are depicted as integral to the social and political fabric of the time.

Does Soekarno include disability representation?

Limited

The story focuses on the political and social mobilization of the population rather than exploring individual experiences of disability. There is no significant emphasis on neurodivergence or physical disabilities as central narrative elements.

Present on Screen

  • Disrupts Western-centric historical narratives by centering Indonesian ability to act.
  • Critiques Western imperialism and portrays colonial oppression effectively.
  • Integrates religious elements naturally into the social and political context.

Limited or Absent

  • Does not include narratives or identities that challenge the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.
  • Female characters are primarily shown in supportive or domestic roles within the revolution.
  • No significant focus on neurodivergence or physical disabilities.

Official Synopsis

This biographical drama about Indonesia's first president recounts his nationalist crusade to seize independence from Dutch colonial rule.

How are these scores produced? →

Where to Watch

Rate this Movie

No rating selected
Use arrow keys to select a rating from 1 to 5 stars
Optional text review, maximum 2000 characters
Tip: Wrap spoilers with ||double pipes|| to hide them
0/2000 characters
You must be signed in to submit a rating

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!

Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.