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The Dark Side of Chocolate

Name: The Dark Side of Chocolate
Director: Miki Mistrati, U. Roberto Romano
Released: 2010
Duration: 46 min

Representation Score

6.8/10

Good

2010

Director

Miki Mistrati, U. Roberto Romano

Runtime

46 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

This documentary is a strong investigative piece that shifts the focus from Western consumers to Ivorian laborers, effectively challenging the 'white savior' cliché through the lived experiences of West African subjects. However, it lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and specific disability narratives. While it highlights the physical toll of labor, it does not center on neurodivergence or visible disabilities as primary plot drivers. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its critique of the power imbalance between Global South producers and Global North consumers.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Dark Side of Chocolate have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary does not include stories or characters focused on LGBTQ+ identities. Instead, it centers on the economic and labor conditions of the cocoa industry.

How does The Dark Side of Chocolate portray gender?

Fair

The film highlights the involvement of both men and women in agriculture. However, it emphasizes age and class differences rather than gendered power dynamics.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Dark Side of Chocolate?

Excellent

The documentary excels in showcasing the voices and experiences of West Africans. It gives a significant role in driving the story to the subjects, allowing their stories to drive the narrative.

How does The Dark Side of Chocolate represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The documentary critically examines Western capitalist structures. It points out the disconnect between Western morality and the realities of production in the global supply chain.

Does The Dark Side of Chocolate include disability representation?

Limited

The film does not specifically represent neurodivergence or visible disabilities. Instead, it focuses on the physical strain and toll of manual labor.

Present on Screen

Centers West African voices and experiences, giving a significant role in driving the story to the subjects.
Challenges the 'white savior' cliché by focusing on the lived experiences of Ivorian laborers.
Provides a rigorous critique of Western capitalist and neo-colonial power structures.

Limited or Absent

Lacks narratives or characters centered on LGBTQ+ identities.
Does not provide specific, actively leading representation of neurodivergence or visible disabilities.
Focuses more on age and class than on specific gendered power dynamics.

Official Synopsis

A team of journalists investigate how human trafficking and child labor in the Ivory Coast fuels the worldwide chocolate industry. The crew interview both proponents and opponents of these alleged practices, and use hidden camera techniques to delve into the gritty world of cocoa plantations.

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