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Forbidden

Forbidden

Representation Score

7.1/10

Good

2018

Director

Colin Duffy, Mercedes Bryce Morgan

Runtime

92 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Forbidden is a high-concept drama that upends traditional power structures. By placing Black LGBTQ+ identities in positions of systemic control, the film challenges conventional social hierarchies and explores complex power dynamics. The world-building is purposefully designed, using race and sexual orientation as key elements of the political landscape. This narrative effectively critiques traditional societal norms by reversing established hierarchies. While the film successfully subverts traditional racial and LGBTQ+ hierarchies, it offers limited insight into gendered power dynamics and does not feature any characters with disabilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does Forbidden have LGBTQ+ representation?

Excellent

The film focuses on a society where Black LGBTQ+ individuals hold significant power. This shift in traditional power dynamics allows non-cisgender identities to shape the world around them.

How does Forbidden portray gender?

Good

The story is driven by the relationship between Nolan Renner and a waitress. While the film challenges traditional gender roles, the specific roles of women in the governing class are not clearly defined.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Forbidden?

Excellent

Nacirema Falls is led by a majority Black governing class, which challenges traditional power structures. This emphasis on Black leadership counters the Anglo-centric dominance often seen in dramatic films.

How does Forbidden represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The setting redefines social norms by emphasizing identity politics. It prioritizes a new social order over conventional Western hierarchies.

Does Forbidden include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Present on Screen

  • Bold subversion of traditional racial and LGBTQ+ hierarchies.
  • World-building that centers Black leadership in positions of authority.
  • Effective critique of traditional societal norms through 'straightphobia'.

Limited or Absent

  • Lack of visible representation for characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.
  • Insufficient detail regarding the specific roles and influence of women in the governing class.

Official Synopsis

A musical set in the North-American city of Nacirema Falls, in the country of Nacirema, which black LGBT people rule, promoting and conducting white racism and "straightphobia". When Nolan Renner falls in love with a waitress at a diner, he gets into trouble.

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