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Alifu, the Prince/ss

Name: Alifu, the Prince/ss
Director: Wang Yu-lin
Released: 2017
Duration: 97 min

Representation Score

7.1/10

Good

2017

Director

Wang Yu-lin

Runtime

97 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Alifu, the Prince/ss is a sophisticated exploration of the intersection between indigenous heritage and queer identity. It moves beyond simple visibility to address complex themes of bodily autonomy and the tension between traditional tribal roles and modern gender expression. The film excels by presenting a multi-layered portrait of characters navigating systemic pressures. By blending post-colonial identity and gender liberation, it avoids reductive clichés and offers a nuanced view of self-actualization. While the film is progressive in its handling of gender and ethnicity, it lacks specific representation regarding physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does Alifu, the Prince/ss have LGBTQ+ representation?

Excellent

The film focuses on the lived experiences of LGBTQ individuals, particularly a protagonist dealing with gender dysphoria and medical transition. It includes a range of identities, such as a transgender man and a lesbian, emphasizing personal ability to act rather than tragedy.

How does Alifu, the Prince/ss portray gender?

Excellent

The narrative challenges traditional gender hierarchies by examining the tension between patriarchal indigenous inheritance and personal gender identity. It deconstructs rigid expectations of masculinity through Alifu's vulnerability and transition.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Alifu, the Prince/ss?

Excellent

The story provides an multi-layered perspective on the Paiwan people, emphasizing ethnicity as a key part of the protagonist's identity. It looks at how indigenous heritage persists within the urban setting of Taipei.

How does Alifu, the Prince/ss represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film prioritizes individual identity over strict adherence to traditional tribal or family customs. It critiques how inherited social norms can become oppressive to personal freedom and expression.

Does Alifu, the Prince/ss include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not provide sufficient evidence regarding physical or neurodivergent disabilities to allow for a meaningful assessment.

Present on Screen

Offers a nuanced spectrum of non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities, including transgender and lesbian characters.
Effectively explores the intersection of indigenous Paiwan heritage and modern queer existence.
Challenges patriarchal structures by centering a narrative on gender subversion and personal ability to act.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation or discussion regarding physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Alifu, a 25 year-old Paiwan boy, works as a hair-dresser in Taipei and struggles between his dream of getting a sex change operation and following his father’s footsteps to inherit the title as Chief of the indigenous Paiwan tribe. His lesbian roommate, Pei-Zhen, is also his best friend and confidante. Sherry, a transgender man, is the owner of a drag queen bar. For years, Sherry has been in love with the plumber, Wu, even though Wu only sees him as his buddy. Chris, a civil servant, lives a dull life. A one-time gig as a drag queen in the bar unexpectedly becomes his unique and secret way to relief stress. Chris has no choice but to keep this gig a secret from his girlfriend Angie. Across different genders and sexualities, the only common ground these people share is their search for love, understanding and acceptance. (Source: Golden Village)

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