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Notturno

Name: Notturno
Director: Gianfranco Rosi
Released: 2020
Duration: 100 min

Representation Score

7.5/10

Good

2020

TV-MA

Director

Gianfranco Rosi

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Notturno is a compelling observational study that centers non-Western identities and challenges traditional geopolitical views. By focusing on the borders of Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon, it gives voice to those often sidelined, allowing their personal experiences to shape the narrative. The film's strength lies in its ability to question Western moralities and the dominance of the nation-state. It treats cultural and religious practices as natural parts of survival rather than teaching tools, offering a deep look at human resilience in the face of systemic instability. However, the documentary lacks specific focus on LGBTQ+ identities and detailed stories about physical or neurological disabilities. While it captures the psychological impact of conflict, it does not highlight the ability to act of those affected by these conditions.

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Category Breakdown

Does Notturno have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film doesn't include any explicit LGBTQ+ stories or characters. It captures a wide range of life experiences but doesn't focus on non-straight or non-cisgender identities.

How does Notturno portray gender?

Fair

The documentary looks at gender through the lens of everyday work and survival in conflict zones. It avoids traditional male-dominated clichés by highlighting the practical roles both men and women play.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Notturno?

Excellent

The film stands out by putting Middle Eastern and North African communities at the center, breaking away from a Western-focused perspective. Real-life individuals lead the story, giving significant power to people of color.

How does Notturno represent religion and culture?

Excellent

Cultural and religious practices are woven naturally into the film's storyline. It offers a nuanced critique of Western institutions and the shortcomings of the nation-state.

Does Notturno include disability representation?

Fair

There are no specific stories about physical or neurological disabilities. However, the film addresses the hidden disabilities of psychological trauma and the weariness brought on by war.

Present on Screen

Highlights Middle Eastern and North African identities exceptionally well.
Challenges Western-centric viewpoints by giving ability to act to non-Western subjects.
Offers a sophisticated critique of global political structures and nation-state failures.
Avoids traditional male-dominated clichés by focusing on practical gendered roles.

Limited or Absent

Needs more explicit representation or focus on LGBTQ+ stories.
Missing specific, ability to act-driven portrayals of physical or neurological disabilities.
Lacks centralized storylines focused on challenging gendered norms.

Official Synopsis

Shot over three years on the borders between Iraq, Kurdistan, Syria and Lebanon, the film depicts the everyday struggles of people attempting to rebuild their lives amongst the devastating effects of civil wars, dictatorships, foreign invasions, and the deadly presence of ISIS.

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