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AWOL

Name: AWOL
Director: Deb Shoval
Released: 2017
Duration: 82 min

Representation Score

5.3/10

Fair

2017

Director

Deb Shoval

Runtime

82 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

AWOL is a focused character study that succeeds by centering queer identity and female autonomy. It subverts standard coming-of-age stories by making non-straight self-discovery the main narrative engine rather than a secondary subplot. However, the film's impact is limited by its demographic homogeneity. The lack of racial and ethnic diversity creates a narrow social lens, even if it aligns with the localized Midwestern setting. Ultimately, the film offers a meaningful, nuanced exploration of internal psychological landscapes, trading broad social diversity for deep, intentional storytelling regarding identity and desire.

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Category Breakdown

Does AWOL have LGBTQ+ representation?

Excellent

The film centers on the protagonist's sexual awakening, which drives the plot. By focusing on her relationship with an older woman, the story avoids tragic clichés and delves into the complexities of forming a queer identity.

How does AWOL portray gender?

Good

The narrative prioritizes female perspectives and autonomy, moving away from the male gaze. It explores female-centric social hierarchies and the emotional intricacies of female friendships.

How racially and ethnically diverse is AWOL?

Limited

The film features a predominantly white cast. While this reflects the specific Midwestern setting, the production lacks significant racial or ethnic intersectionality.

How does AWOL represent religion and culture?

Good

The story emphasizes personal truth and secular exploration over religious dogma. It subtly moves away from conservative norms by prioritizing individual identity over communal conformity.

Does AWOL include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no prominent depictions of physical or neurodivergent disabilities that serve as central drivers for the characters.

Present on Screen

Provides significant roles to queer narratives by making sexual awakening the central plot driver.
De-centers the male gaze by focusing on female-centric social hierarchies and emotional autonomy.
Avoids common tragic clichés, focusing instead on the complexities of desire and self-discovery.

Limited or Absent

Lacks racial and ethnic diversity, resulting in a relatively homogeneous demographic profile.
The narrow geographic and socioeconomic focus limits the film's broader cultural diversity.

Official Synopsis

A young woman in the Army must make tough decisions when her love for an older woman causes her to question just where she is going. Adapted from Deb Shoval's 2011 short film of the same name.

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