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The Pagan

Name: The Pagan
Director: W.S. Van Dyke
Released: 1929
Duration: 78 min

Representation Score

2.4/10

Limited

1929

Passed

Director

W.S. Van Dyke

Runtime

78 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film explores the tension between indigenous traditions and Western religious imposition. It uses a mixed-race protagonist to delve into the complexities of identity and the impact of colonial values. While the film offers a critique of Western societal norms, it remains bound by the era's traditional dramatic structures. The narrative lacks depth in addressing gender roles and LGBTQ+ representation. Ultimately, the film provides cultural nuance but fails to challenge the period's standard hierarchies or offer diverse representation beyond its central racial conflict.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Pagan have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not depict any non-straight relationships or identities. The plot revolves around a traditional romance between the main character and a native woman.

How does The Pagan portray gender?

Limited

Women have limited ability to act, with the female lead's actions controlled by a male guardian. The story follows era-specific clichés where women are central objects of desire and conflict.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Pagan?

Fair

The story introduces racial complexity through a mixed-race protagonist. It centers on indigenous experiences and their resistance to external cultural influences.

How does The Pagan represent religion and culture?

Good

The film critiques Western institutional influence by depicting religious upbringing as a tool for a predatory guardian. It valorizes indigenous autonomy over colonial structures.

Does The Pagan include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no evidence of physical or neurodivergent disability representation within the film's narrative.

Present on Screen

Features a protagonist of mixed heritage, adding layers of racial complexity.
Critiques Western religious institutions by portraying them as tools for control.
Explores the tension between indigenous autonomy and colonial imposition.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight narratives.
Female characters lack a significant role in driving the story, serving primarily as objects of male conflict.
Provides no depiction of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Henry, the pagan son of a white father and native mother, has inherited land and a store, but he prefers the simple life. When he falls in love with a native girl, her guardian, who is trying to bring her up as a 'proper' Christian, but who also lusts after her himself, plots to keep them apart.

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