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Cyrano de Bergerac

Name: Cyrano de Bergerac
Director: Augusto Genina
Released: 1923
Duration: 113 min

Representation Score

2.0/10

Limited

1923

TV-G

Director

Augusto Genina

Runtime

113 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

This 1923 adaptation of the classic play is a traditional production that emphasizes historical accuracy and romantic clichés over modern representation. The narrative structure is based on the social hierarchies and conventions of 17th-century France. While the film provides a deep look into human weaknesses and the contrast between outward appearance and inner virtue, it lacks diverse representation. The storytelling follows the strict norms of early 1920s cinema, reinforcing established standards without challenging them. Overall, the film showcases classical Western romance, focusing on personal honor and unfulfilled love within the context of the era’s social norms.

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Category Breakdown

Does Cyrano de Bergerac have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film centers on a relationship that assumes everyone is straight or cisgender. There are no characters with LGBTQ identities or subtexts.

How does Cyrano de Bergerac portray gender?

Limited

Roxane is portrayed mainly as an object of desire rather than as an active participant in the story. The narrative supports traditional gender roles and male dominance.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Cyrano de Bergerac?

Minimal

The cast is uniform, reflecting the 17th-century French context. There are no characters representing diverse ethnic backgrounds or multi-layered identities.

How does Cyrano de Bergerac represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story upholds Western ideals of chivalry and nobility. It operates within the moral framework of the time without questioning the societal and military structures.

Does Cyrano de Bergerac include disability representation?

Fair

Cyrano’s large nose is the main driver of the plot through the 'tragic flaw' cliché. His physical difference leads to isolation without exploring his identity in depth.

Present on Screen

Offers a sophisticated exploration of the contrast between physical appearance and inner character.
Provides a compelling look at the emotional complexity of unfulfilled love.

Limited or Absent

Does not include diverse ethnic or racial identities.
Uses the 'tragic flaw' cliché related to physical differences without nuanced representation of disabilities.
Supports traditional gender roles by portraying the female lead as a prize.

Official Synopsis

Cyrano de Begerac is joyous, witty, a poet, a leader and filled with plenty of charisma and bravado in 17th Century France. He has only one flaw: an unusually long nose which makes him unattractive to any woman. Thus, he cannot have the woman he loves, his cousin Roxanne. Roxanne loves an officer in his army who gets tongue-tied in front of women. Who will Roxanne love? Will Cyrano ever find love? Or will he find happiness in helping the officer woo Roxanne? This is a story of split personalities, human frailty and unrequited love.

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