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Cleo

Name: Cleo
Director: Eva Cools
Released: 2019
Duration: 106 min

Representation Score

6.4/10

Good

2019

Director

Eva Cools

Runtime

106 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Cleo is a character-driven drama that challenges traditional cinematic depictions of trauma. By focusing on a protagonist who navigates life through social conflict and unconventional connections, the film avoids simplified portrayals of grief. The narrative structure highlights individual ability to act and dismantles traditional social hierarchies. It replaces predictable mourning rituals with a more complex exploration of interpersonal dynamics. While the film excels at subverting gender stereotypes and delving into psychological depth, it lacks specific information about racial and ethnic diversity to offer a comprehensive view of representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does Cleo have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film examines unique relationship dynamics through Cleo's bond with Leos. Although specific LGBTQ identities are not confirmed, the story deviates from typical romantic plotlines.

How does Cleo portray gender?

Good

Cleo is an active protagonist who faces trauma through social rebellion and physical confrontation. She avoids the passive 'damsel in distress' stereotype by engaging actively with her challenging environment.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Cleo?

Minimal

The available information provides no data regarding the racial composition of the cast. Consequently, the ethnic dynamics of the setting remain unaddressed.

How does Cleo represent religion and culture?

Good

The story emphasizes a secular, chaotic portrayal of youth, focusing on nightlife and fractured family structures rather than traditional stability and mourning practices.

Does Cleo include disability representation?

Fair

The narrative centers on the psychological impact of a traumatic event, touching on the complexities of grief and mental health issues following the loss of parents.

Present on Screen

Challenges the 'damsel in distress' cliché by showcasing a female protagonist who is an active, rebellious force.
Explores complex, non-traditional relationship dynamics and unconventional social structures.
Provides a nuanced look at the psychological complexities of grief and hidden mental health struggles.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit information or visible representation regarding racial and ethnic diversity.
The exploration of disability remains focused on trauma rather than specific neurodivergent or physical ability to act.

Official Synopsis

Six months after a car accident that cost her her parents, Cleo is finally starting to feel the same way before. She lives with her seven-year-old brother Bruno at her grandmother's house and is ready to return to her favorite activity – drinking parties with friends at Club No. 7. When she gets into a fight in a bar, she is given a helping hand by the reclusive Leos. Despite the ten-year age difference, they become friends, and Cleo naively hopes that there will be something more between them.

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