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High Above

Name: High Above
Director: Oksana Karas
Released: 2019
Duration: 104 min

Representation Score

4.4/10

Fair

2019

Director

Oksana Karas

Runtime

104 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

High Above is a localized character drama that emphasizes personal growth and medical realities over broad social themes. It succeeds in centering a female protagonist with a chronic condition, giving her a leading role despite her physical limitations. However, the film remains within conventional dramatic structures. It lacks complexity in reflecting multiple aspects of identity and offers a homogeneous demographic profile with a traditional romantic narrative that avoids non-straight relationships.

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Category Breakdown

Does High Above have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film centers on a traditional romantic storyline focused on the protagonist's first love. There is no indication of non-straight identities or same-sex relationships.

How does High Above portray gender?

Fair

Vasya Tikhonova serves as a strong female lead, driving the story forward through her journey from maternal protection to personal independence and risk-taking.

How racially and ethnically diverse is High Above?

Limited

Set near Moscow, the film follows a socially uniform cast. It lacks evidence of a multi-ethnic ensemble or diverse casting.

How does High Above represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story delves into familial dynamics and medical vulnerability within a Russian context. It hints at a shift towards individualized moral choices.

Does High Above include disability representation?

Good

The protagonist's congenital heart defect is a key element of the plot, providing a foundation for representing chronic illness and lived experiences.

Present on Screen

The protagonist's congenital heart defect is a central, meaningful driver of the narrative.
Vasya Tikhonova demonstrates a strong role by transitioning from passivity to personal freedom.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks complexity in reflecting multiple aspects of identity and diverse casting.
The narrative adheres to traditional romantic structures without exploring non-straight identities.

Official Synopsis

Eighteen-year-old Vasya Tikhonova is travelling with her parents to a medical resort near Moscow, seeking treatment. She has a congenital heart defect, and her mother has always been overprotective. But when the Tikhonov family arrives, a murder is committed at the resort. And within seven days, Vasya’s life will change dramatically. She will meet her first love, she will take a big risk fighting for it, and she will make a discovery that is scary, but grants her freedom.

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