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Once Upon a Time

Once Upon a Time

Representation Score

2.1/10

Limited

1922

Director

Carl Theodor Dreyer

Runtime

75 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Carl Theodor Dreyer’s work provides a fascinating study of power through its subversion of gendered hierarchies. The princess serves as a actively leading protagonist who dictates the terms of the romantic pursuit, moving far beyond the passive 'damsel in distress' archetype. However, the film is heavily constrained by its historical and genre-based origins. It adheres to the demographic and narrative norms of early 20th-century European folklore, which limits its breadth in terms of racial and LGBTQ+ inclusion.

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Category Breakdown

Does Once Upon a Time have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film follows a traditional fairy-tale structure focused on a prince and princess. There is no presence of same-sex relationships or non-binary gender identities.

How does Once Upon a Time portray gender?

Good

The princess subverts typical gender clichés by acting as an imperious figure with lethal control. She rejects marriage and commands her environment, challenging submissive femininity.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Once Upon a Time?

Minimal

Set within a folkloric European context, the film reflects the homogeneous demographic norms of the early 20th century. No racial blending is present.

How does Once Upon a Time represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative utilizes a fantastical logic involving spirits and magic rather than strict religious dogma. However, it remains rooted in traditional European storytelling.

Does Once Upon a Time include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no prominent depictions of physical or neurodivergent characters. Consequently, no meaningful assessment of disability representation can be made.

Present on Screen

  • The princess functions as a powerful character who exerts lethal control over her suitors.
  • The narrative disrupts conventional gender hierarchies by positioning a female as the primary arbiter of life and death.

Limited or Absent

  • The film lacks racial and ethnic diversity, reflecting the homogeneous norms of its era.
  • There is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-conforming gender expressions.

Official Synopsis

A beautiful but imperious princess refuses all offers of marriage, often condemning her suitors to death. The prince of Denmark comes seeking her hand and, aided by magic objects given to him by a mysterious spirit, seeks to win her love.

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