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Models

Name: Models
Director: Ulrich Seidl
Released: 1999
Duration: 118 min

Representation Score

8.0/10

Good

1999

Director

Ulrich Seidl

Runtime

118 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Ulrich Seidl’s *Models* serves as a critical examination of the fashion industry. It prioritizes a systemic critique of Western capitalist ideals over traditional, identity-based character narratives. While the film does not focus specifically on LGBTQ+ or disability-related stories, it successfully subverts traditional gendered aesthetics. It replaces the cliché of the graceful female subject with a raw look at the demanding nature of modeling. Ultimately, the film uses its subjects to explore the commodification of the human form. It provides a progressive perspective by highlighting the dysfunction inherent in the pursuit of beauty.

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Category Breakdown

Does Models have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not include explicit stories about non-straight or non-cisgender identities or same-sex relationships. It also does not challenge the idea that everyone is straight or cisgender through specific character journeys.

How does Models portray gender?

Good

The film challenges traditional ideas of femininity by showing the female body as a place of hard work and repetitive tasks. It highlights power imbalances and societal pressures rather than typical glamour.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Models?

Fair

The documentary showcases a diverse range of people from different ethnic backgrounds within the fashion industry. However, these individuals are often shown primarily as visual elements within the studio setting.

How does Models represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film provides a strong critique of capitalist systems and the dehumanization of individuals. It portrays the pursuit of beauty as a repetitive cycle of consumption and artificiality.

Does Models include disability representation?

Fair

The film does not have a specific focus on neurodivergence or physical disabilities. Psychological issues, such as substance use, are addressed as systemic problems rather than personal experiences.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gendered aesthetics by focusing on the labor and repetitive tasks of modeling.
Provides a strong critique of capitalist structures and the dehumanization of individuals.
Features a diverse cast that reflects ethnic diversity within the professional fashion industry.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit stories or character arcs about LGBTQ+ identities and same-sex relationships.
Does not provide specific explorations of lived experiences related to neurodivergence or physical disabilities.
Racial identities are overshadowed by the overarching theme of bodily commodification and spectacle.

Official Synopsis

A revealing and devastating portrait of a trio of aspiring real-life Viennese models. Vivian will stop at nothing to be a magazine cover girl. Lisa fills her time with routine plastic surgery and cocaine binges, while innocent Tanja focuses on the mystical through tarot cards, yoga, and raw animal energy.

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