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The Circle

Name: The Circle
Director: James Ponsoldt
Released: 2017
Duration: 110 min

Representation Score

5.5/10

Fair

2017

PG-13

Director

James Ponsoldt

Runtime

110 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film operates as a focused cautionary tale about systemic surveillance and corporate dominance. It places a female protagonist at the center of a global technological shift, emphasizing her ability to act within a high-stakes environment. However, the narrative lacks diversity in social identities. By focusing on the philosophical implications of digital connectivity, the film overlooks a broad range of social experiences, creating a homogeneous social stratum that feels disconnected from a global perspective. Ultimately, the film's concentration on the Silicon Valley elite limits its scope, failing to represent the diverse human experiences within a pervasive technological ecosystem.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Circle have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature any LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities. The story focuses solely on the protagonist's journey within a corporate environment.

How does The Circle portray gender?

Fair

Mae Holland is a strong female lead who drives the narrative through her intelligence and significant role in the story. Male executives are present but do not define the plot's direction.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Circle?

Limited

The setting and casting reflect a predominantly white, upper-middle-class demographic. Characters of color are not integrated into the main storyline.

How does The Circle represent religion and culture?

Good

The story critiques modern Western institutions and late-stage capitalism. It portrays the corporation as a cult-like entity that challenges the sanctity of privacy and personal life.

Does The Circle include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities. The film does not explore themes of ability to act or systemic barriers through neurodivergence or physical disability.

Present on Screen

Features a female protagonist with unprecedented global influence and ability to act.
Offers a sophisticated critique of modern Western institutions and unchecked corporate power.
Examines the philosophical and psychological consequences of radical transparency and surveillance.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from more meaningful representation of LGBTQ+ identities and non-cisgender characters.
Needs to integrate the lived experiences of people of color or diverse ethnic backgrounds.
Should consider including characters with visible or invisible disabilities in the narrative.

Official Synopsis

A young tech worker takes a job at a powerful Internet corporation, quickly rises up the company's ranks, and soon finds herself in a perilous situation concerning privacy, surveillance and freedom. She comes to learn that her decisions and actions will determine the future of humanity.

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