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Kingdom of Silence

Name: Kingdom of Silence
Director: Rick Rowley
Released: 2020
Duration: 98 min

Representation Score

4.2/10

Fair

2020

TV-MA

Director

Rick Rowley

Runtime

98 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Kingdom of Silence is a specialized political thriller that excels in challenging Western-centric geopolitical narratives. By centering the tragedy of Jamal Khashoggi, the film provides a platform for Middle Eastern perspectives and critiques the systemic entanglements between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. However, the documentary's narrow investigative focus limits its breadth. Because it is a highly specific geopolitical study, it lacks representation across several social identity categories, resulting in a lower overall score despite its cultural depth. Ultimately, the film succeeds as a critique of power structures but does not aim for broad-spectrum social diversity.

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Category Breakdown

Does Kingdom of Silence have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary focuses on international relations and the Khashoggi investigation. There are no LGBTQ+ narratives or themes present in this political context.

How does Kingdom of Silence portray gender?

Fair

The film examines how individuals navigate high-stakes political environments. While it touches on the human element of systemic failures, it lacks specific character arcs to deepen gendered perspectives.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Kingdom of Silence?

Good

The film disrupts Western-centric storytelling by centering a Middle Eastern figure. It provides a significant role in driving the story to a person of color within a global power struggle.

How does Kingdom of Silence represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The narrative critiques traditional Western institutional alliances and strategic interests. It highlights the tension between state interests and individual human rights in foreign relations.

Does Kingdom of Silence include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no information regarding the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities within this investigative work.

Present on Screen

Challenges Western dominance by centering a non-Western tragedy.
Provides a significant role in driving the story to a person of color in a global narrative.
Offers a sophisticated critique of international institutional alliances.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities and themes.
Provides no visibility for physical or neurodivergent disabilities.
Limited engagement with specific gendered character arcs.

Official Synopsis

A political thriller examining the complex relationship between the United States and Saudi Arabia, and how the murder of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi amplified entanglements between the two countries.

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