You are here:

A Dog Named Palma

A Dog Named Palma

Representation Score

0.8/10

Minimal

2021

Director

Alexandr Domogarov Jr.

Runtime

110 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

A Dog Named Palma is a character-driven drama that prioritizes individual psychological healing and the bond between humans and animals. The narrative structure follows a traditional arc of loneliness and redemption, using a non-human protagonist to facilitate emotional growth. The film adheres to conventional storytelling techniques, focusing on personal connections rather than challenging systemic hierarchies. It serves as a sentimentalist piece that avoids moral relativism or anti-institutional sentiments. Ultimately, the film lacks the intentionality needed to incorporate diverse identity perspectives. It remains a conventional work built around established clichés of companionship and individual emotional recovery.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does A Dog Named Palma have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. It follows traditional romantic and family stories without any queer themes or non-cisgender identities.

How does A Dog Named Palma portray gender?

Limited

The story focuses heavily on the male experience and professional isolation. While it explores male emotional vulnerability, it relies on traditional gender roles and masculine standards of success.

How racially and ethnically diverse is A Dog Named Palma?

Limited

The cast is relatively uniform, reflecting a specific socio-economic environment in Moscow. There is no significant racial diversity or varied ethnic identities.

How does A Dog Named Palma represent religion and culture?

Limited

The narrative emphasizes traditional emotional values and the restorative power of companionship. It avoids criticizing social institutions, favoring a classic, sentimental approach.

Does A Dog Named Palma include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no prominent depiction of physical, sensory, or neurodivergent disabilities. The character arcs focus solely on psychological states and the bond with a canine companion.

Present on Screen

  • Explores deep emotional vulnerability and the psychological healing of the male protagonist.
  • Provides a focused, character-driven narrative centered on the bond between humans and animals.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or narratives that challenge traditional gender roles.
  • Features a homogeneous cast with little racial or ethnic diversity.
  • Does not include depictions of physical, sensory, or neurodivergent disabilities.
  • Relies on traditional gendered archetypes and conventional social hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

The film is inspired by an incredible story of a shepherd dog named Palm who was inadvertently left in the airport by her owner. She befriends nine-year old Nicholas whose mother dies leaving him with a father he barely knows - a pilot who finds the dog at the airport. It's a story of amazing adventures, true friendship and unconditional love.

How are these scores produced? →

Where to Watch

Rate this Movie

No rating selected
Use arrow keys to select a rating from 1 to 5 stars
Optional text review, maximum 2000 characters
Tip: Wrap spoilers with ||double pipes|| to hide them
0/2000 characters
You must be signed in to submit a rating

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!

Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.