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Zeros and Ones

Name: Zeros and Ones
Director: Abel Ferrara
Released: 2021
Duration: 85 min

Representation Score

4.7/10

Fair

2021

Director

Abel Ferrara

Runtime

85 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Abel Ferrara’s thriller explores a world in flux, focusing on the tension between individuals and systemic institutions. The film's diversity is reflected in its international cast and thematic subversion of religious and state hierarchies, rather than explicit identity politics. While the cast is ethnically diverse, the narrative structure remains heavily male-centric, focusing on a mercenary's mission. The film lacks visible LGBTQ+ representation or depictions of disability, leaning into a gritty, idiosyncratic exploration of social decay and institutional instability.

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Category Breakdown

Does Zeros and Ones have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The story focuses on the bond between a mercenary and his imprisoned brother, with no explicit evidence of queer romantic relationships or non-cisgender identities.

How does Zeros and Ones portray gender?

Fair

The plot emphasizes a masculine struggle against terrorism and state control, with ability to act concentrated among male protagonists despite the presence of several female performers.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Zeros and Ones?

Fair

The film features an international cast of actors from Middle Eastern, Eastern European, and Central Asian backgrounds, reflecting a global, multi-ethnic urban environment in Rome.

How does Zeros and Ones represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative challenges traditional sanctity by placing a terrorist threat at the Vatican, critiquing institutional control and the fragility of religious and technological structures.

Does Zeros and Ones include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no documented evidence of physical or neurodivergent disabilities portrayed in the film.

Present on Screen

The international cast offers a multi-ethnic perspective that avoids traditional Anglo-centric casting norms.
The narrative effectively challenges Western institutions by questioning the sanctity of the Vatican.
The setting reflects a globalized, multi-ethnic urban environment through its diverse ensemble.

Limited or Absent

The story relies on a traditional thriller structure that concentrates ability to act primarily in male characters.
There is a lack of visible representation for LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender characters.
The film provides no documented portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Called to Rome to stop an imminent terrorist bombing, a soldier desperately seeks news of his imprisoned brother — a rebel with knowledge that could thwart the attack. Navigating the capital's darkened streets, he races to a series of ominous encounters to keep the Vatican from being blown to bits.

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