You are here:

Thermae Romae

Name: Thermae Romae
Director: Hideki Takeuchi
Released: 2012
Duration: 108 min

Representation Score

3.9/10

Limited

2012

PG-13

Director

Hideki Takeuchi

Runtime

108 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Thermae Romae distinguishes itself through its unique cross-cultural architecture, using a time-travel device to bridge Mediterranean and East Asian traditions. This blend of diverse cultural identities through shared human rituals sets the film apart from typical period dramas. However, the film remains socially conservative in other respects. It lacks engagement with LGBTQ+ identities and upholds traditional gender hierarchies, where women often support the protagonist's journey. Ultimately, the film is a study in cultural curiosity rather than a deep critique of societal norms. It successfully disrupts historical silos through its 'fish-out-of-water' premise, even if it avoids more profound social or political challenges.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Thermae Romae have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film centers on Lucius's professional challenges and cultural exploration. It doesn't include explicit representations of non-straight identities or stories that question the assumption that everyone is straight.

How does Thermae Romae portray gender?

Fair

Gender dynamics follow typical comedic structures. Women play various social roles but mainly serve as contrasts to the protagonist's architectural goals.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Thermae Romae?

Good

The narrative breaks Western-centric historical clichés by connecting Ancient Rome with modern Japan. This cross-cultural interaction provides a nuanced view of how different cultures influence each other.

How does Thermae Romae represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story emphasizes universal human rituals over strict religious practices. Cultural curiosity is explored through leisure and innovation rather than institutional norms.

Does Thermae Romae include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no notable depiction of visible or invisible disabilities. Characters are defined by their professional roles and cultural backgrounds.

Present on Screen

The cross-cultural premise effectively disrupts Western-centric historical narratives.
Blending Roman and Japanese traditions provides a unique globalized perspective.
Focusing on universal human experiences like relaxation and ritual.

Limited or Absent

The narrative lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight perspectives.
Gender roles remain conventional and don't challenge traditional hierarchies.
The film avoids deeper critiques of social or institutional norms.

Official Synopsis

Lucius Modestus, ancient Roman bath architect, has lost his job. The one way he can win it back is by creating a bath that nobody has seen before, and, by pure chance, ends up slipping through time to Japan in 2012. There, he discovers the wonders of Japanese bath technology, incorporating it into his own designs, but must face the challenges of the succession of the emperor, his home life, and his new hot spring-based friends, including manga artist meet-cute Mami.

How are these scores produced? →