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This Time

Name: This Time
Director: Sebastien Tobler
Released: 2023
Duration: 88 min

Representation Score

5.8/10

Fair

2023

Director

Sebastien Tobler

Runtime

88 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

This Time is a character-driven drama that enriches the romance genre by grounding personal intimacy in geopolitical history. By linking the protagonists' reunion to the 1998 Jakarta riots, the film delves into the nuances of systemic trauma and its impact on individual ability to act and diaspora identities. The film excels in providing a multifaceted exploration of multiculturalism and the lived experience of displacement. It steers clear of common clichés by giving the female lead significant professional stakes, balancing romantic tension with personal ambition. However, the film lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities and disability. While the historical depth is a major strength, the narrative remains centered on a traditional romantic pairing and does not address neurodivergence or physical accessibility.

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Category Breakdown

Does This Time have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film focuses on a romantic reunion between Laela and Colin but does not explicitly address LGBTQ+ identities or themes.

How does This Time portray gender?

Fair

The movie features two main characters who share equal importance. Laela plays a significant role in driving the story through her professional life and career deadlines.

How racially and ethnically diverse is This Time?

Excellent

The film centers on the aftermath of the 1998 Jakarta riots, exploring the experiences of those affected by historical trauma and systemic issues.

How does This Time represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative highlights the impact of historical instability and systemic violence on the characters' lives. It emphasizes personal identity and the complexities of multiculturalism.

Does This Time include disability representation?

Minimal

The current storyline does not include characters dealing with physical, neurodivergent, or mental health conditions.

Present on Screen

Explores the impact of historical trauma on individual ability to act and diaspora identities.
Offers a nuanced look at multiculturalism and global displacement.
Avoids gender clichés by giving the female lead significant professional stakes.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or themes.
Does not feature characters navigating disability or neurodivergence.

Official Synopsis

Twenty-three years after being torn apart during the 1998 Jakarta riots, high school sweethearts Laela and Colin unexpectedly reunite in Los Angeles. With a cross-country move looming and a major career deadline ticking, the two share one powerful day revisiting what was—and what still might be.

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