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The Poisoning Angel

Name: The Poisoning Angel
Director: Stéphanie Pillonca
Released: 2017
Duration: 97 min

Representation Score

7.5/10

Good

2017

Director

Stéphanie Pillonca

Runtime

97 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film successfully deconstructs historical power structures and challenges traditional gender roles. By centering a female protagonist who chooses notoriety over domesticity, it moves beyond conventional clichés of female virtue. However, the historical setting limits racial and ethnic diversity. The absence of visible LGBTQ+ representation also contributes to a moderate overall score. Ultimately, the work serves as a psychological exploration of systemic oppression, emphasizing institutional critique and mental health struggles over broad demographic inclusion.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Poisoning Angel have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include explicit LGBTQ+ characters or representations of non-straight identities. The narrative centers on the protagonist's psychological isolation.

How does The Poisoning Angel portray gender?

Good

The story challenges traditional female stereotypes by focusing on a notorious killer rather than a passive character. It highlights the protagonist's destructive influence and active role.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Poisoning Angel?

Limited

Set in 1800s Brittany, the film reflects the ethnic homogeneity of the time period. There is no indication of multi-ethnic casting or intentional demographic diversity.

How does The Poisoning Angel represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative strongly critiques historical power structures, portraying the clergy and ruling regime as oppressive forces rather than moral guides.

Does The Poisoning Angel include disability representation?

Good

The protagonist's mental health issues and morbid thoughts drive the plot. This approach gives real power to a character experiencing profound psychological distress.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gender stereotypes by depicting a female protagonist with destructive influence.
Critiques historical religious and state institutions as oppressive forces.
Focuses on psychological distress as a driving narrative force rather than a mere plot device.

Limited or Absent

Lacks visible LGBTQ+ representation or non-straight identities.
Reflects high levels of ethnic homogeneity due to its specific historical setting.
Offers little evidence of multi-ethnic or diverse demographic inclusion.

Official Synopsis

In 1800, Brittany is on its knees, overwhelmed by the regime in place and by the omnipotent clergy. It founders in an economic slump without end in sight and, in the middle of all this, a young, suffering girl pushes back as best she can. She is known as the "Poisoning Angel," an isolated child, mistreated by life and rocked by morbid thoughts. She will become one of the world's most notorious serial killers and will sow death, perhaps merely to be looked at and loved.

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