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Pharaoh

Name: Pharaoh
Director: Jerzy Kawalerowicz
Released: 1966
Duration: 151 min

Representation Score

2.8/10

Limited

1966

Director

Jerzy Kawalerowicz

Runtime

151 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Pharaoh is a monumental historical epic that emphasizes the mechanics of institutional power over individual character studies. It successfully portrays a non-Western social structure and offers a nuanced critique of centralized authority and religious manipulation. However, the film is constrained by its heavy focus on masculine leadership and patriarchal structures. It lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and characters with disabilities, reflecting a narrow focus on macro-political movements. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its cultural and philosophical depth rather than its demographic breadth. It challenges Western notions of divine moral order through its depiction of systemic corruption.

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Category Breakdown

Does Pharaoh have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on patriarchal structures within the Egyptian court and does not depict non-traditional gender identities or same-sex relationships.

How does Pharaoh portray gender?

Limited

The story centers on male-dominated hierarchies and the struggle for control between the Pharaoh and high priests. Female characters are present but do not play a significant role in the central political conflict.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Pharaoh?

Fair

The production highlights an authentic, non-Western aesthetic appropriate to Ancient Egypt. It showcases a diverse social hierarchy from nobility to laborers.

How does Pharaoh represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film critiques traditional institutions by highlighting the conflict between state and religious authorities. It presents a morally relative world where political survival outweighs ethical considerations.

Does Pharaoh include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities in the film. The focus remains on macro-level political and religious factions.

Present on Screen

Offers a sophisticated critique of centralized authority and religious institutions.
Features an authentic, non-Western aesthetic and diverse social stratification.
Explores complex themes of moral relativism and political maneuvering.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-traditional gender expressions.
Female characters are sidelined within the central political conflict.
Provides no meaningful portrayal of characters with disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Young Pharaoh Ramses XIII clashes with Egypt's clergy over influence on the affairs of the state and its coffers. inexperienced, but quite ambitious pharaoh is putting up a fight against a powerful clan of priests usurping rule over the country.

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