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Once Upon a Time in Bethlehem

Once Upon a Time in Bethlehem

Representation Score

3.6/10

Limited

2019

Director

Salvatore Ficarra, Valentino Picone

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Once Upon a Time in Bethlehem is a traditional fantasy-comedy that hinges on a temporal displacement premise. The narrative centers on the unlikely pairing of a thief and a priest transported to the year 0. Although the historical setting offers a natural shift in cultural context, the film does not intentionally explore diverse representations. Instead, it leans on comedic clichés and the contrast between secular and religious perspectives without challenging established social norms. Ultimately, the film serves as a genre piece that leverages a biblical backdrop for situational humor without upending traditional societal structures.

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Category Breakdown

Does Once Upon a Time in Bethlehem have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not include any characters or themes related to LGBTQ+ identities. The plot revolves around the comedic interactions between two male characters.

How does Once Upon a Time in Bethlehem portray gender?

Fair

The story is driven by male characters, including a male thief and a male priest. While the Nativity setting includes female figures, the film does not challenge traditional gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Once Upon a Time in Bethlehem?

Fair

The film shifts its setting to historical Palestine, moving away from modern Western demographics. It is unclear whether the film delves into complex ethnic identities or simply adheres to historical archetypes.

How does Once Upon a Time in Bethlehem represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story examines the interplay between secular and organized religion. By placing a thief in a sacred context, the film introduces moral complexity and diverse viewpoints.

Does Once Upon a Time in Bethlehem include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities in this film.

Present on Screen

  • The film shifts its setting to historical Palestine, providing a departure from contemporary Western demographics.
  • It introduces moral complexity by juxtaposing secular and religious worldviews.

Limited or Absent

  • The film lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities and themes.
  • Character roles are predominantly filled by male protagonists, limiting gender diversity.
  • There are no characters with disabilities included in the film.

Official Synopsis

A thief and a priest end up magically transported in the year 0's Palestine, where they'll have to make sure that the Nativity will follow its course.

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