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NO-A

Name: NO-A
Director: Liam Murphy
Released: 2015
Duration: 5 min

Representation Score

4.5/10

Fair

2015

Director

Liam Murphy

Runtime

5 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

NO-A is a character-driven survivalist tale that leans heavily on established science fiction clichés. While it offers a minor subversion of gender hierarchies by making a woman the creator, the core plot remains tied to conventional hero narratives. The film lacks verifiable evidence of diverse casting or systemic social commentary. The focus on a singular rescue mission limits opportunities for deeper explorations of identity or the way different parts of someone's identity overlap. Ultimately, the work functions as a standard action-driven sci-fi piece rather than a tool for deconstructing social norms.

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Category Breakdown

Does NO-A have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The story revolves around a bond between a synthetic being and his creator. It does not include explicit LGBTQ+ identities or critiques of the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender, focusing instead on a rescue theme.

How does NO-A portray gender?

Fair

Aixa subverts gender stereotypes by serving as the intellectual creator of the protagonist. However, her role as a figure needing rescue reinforces traditional protector/protected power dynamics.

How racially and ethnically diverse is NO-A?

Limited

The desolate science fiction setting emphasizes atmosphere over demographic specifics. There is no evidence of diverse casting or the use of species as racial metaphors.

How does NO-A represent religion and culture?

Limited

The post-apocalyptic setting suggests a breakdown of traditional institutions. However, the narrative follows a classic, individualistic hero arc without a systemic social critique.

Does NO-A include disability representation?

Limited

The film focuses on survivalist action elements. There is no indication of neurodivergent characters or physical and sensory disabilities within the narrative.

Present on Screen

Subverts the male-scientist cliché by positioning Aixa as the intellectual creator.
Uses a post-apocalyptic framework to imply a breakdown of traditional societal structures.

Limited or Absent

Relies on traditional protector/protected dynamics that may undermine women's ability to drive the story.
Lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender expressions.
Provides no evidence of disability representation or neurodivergent characters.
Fails to provide specific details regarding racial or ethnic diversity within the cast.

Official Synopsis

The world is a desolate, unforgiving place in this action sci-fi with a surprising amount of heart. We follow NO-A (Noah), as he attempts to rescue Aixa, the young woman that created him. In his attempt to save her, he must face an unknown enemy and fight to keep them both alive.

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