AFI's 100 Years... 100 Heroes & Villains

The documentary examines historical figures that often reflect the censorship of their time. It focuses on traditional heroism, which aligns with the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.

The selection emphasizes masculine archetypes of leadership and physical strength. This framework often reinforces hierarchies where characters have little control over their own lives, concentrating ability to act in male protagonists.

The celebration is tied to the Hollywood studio system's historical dominance. This results in a heavy emphasis on Anglo-Saxon archetypes and narratives centered around white experiences.

The work functions as an institutional celebration of Western cinematic achievements. It relies on moral binaries that align with traditional Western storytelling values.

Characters with disabilities are frequently used as symbolic plot devices or shorthand for moral complexity. The film lacks evidence of contemporary disability empowerment.