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The King Maker

The King Maker

Representation Score

3.0/10

Limited

2005

R

Director

Lek Kitaparaporn

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The film functions as a traditional historical adventure, using a varied setting to tell a story of individual bravery. While the blend of Portuguese and Siamese cultures offers a multicultural backdrop, the film does not leverage this diversity to challenge existing power structures. Instead, the work adheres to genre conventions popular in the mid-2000s, emphasizing historical romance and political survival over modern social critiques. Ultimately, the diversity present serves the setting rather than aiming to disrupt the status quo or promote contemporary social commentary.

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Category Breakdown

Does The King Maker have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film follows typical romantic storylines focused on heterosexual relationships. There is no representation of non-traditional gender identities or stories that question conventional dating norms.

How does The King Maker portray gender?

Fair

Although the title hints at a strong female character, the film upholds traditional gender roles typical of its time period. The plot explores political influence without challenging male dominance or questioning existing power structures.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The King Maker?

Fair

The storyline includes a mix of cultural elements between a Portuguese main character and the Siamese kingdom. The addition of Arab slave traders adds more ethnic diversity to the historical backdrop.

How does The King Maker represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film is set in the historical context of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, focusing on monarchy and destiny rather than secular themes or criticisms of traditional institutions.

Does The King Maker include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no depiction of visible or invisible disabilities. Characters are characterized by their physical abilities within a martial and political environment.

Present on Screen

  • Features a rich mix of cultures through the interaction between Portugal and Siam.
  • Includes diverse ethnic elements, such as the presence of Arab slave traders in the setting.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks intentionality in challenging traditional gender roles or male leadership.
  • Does not address non-traditional gender identities or queer narratives.
  • Does not represent individuals with visible or invisible disabilities.

Official Synopsis

1547. Fernando de Gama, a young "Soldier of Fortune" from Portugal, set sail for the Orient in an effort to find a man who murdered his father and, with luck, like many of their compatriots, to make his fortune. A vicious storm in the Indian Ocean almost ended his plans when he was on the ship sank. The sole survivor, he was washed up on a tropical beach only to be captured by Arab slavers and taken to Ayutthaya in the kingdom of Siam, where he was offered for sale as a slave.

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