You are here:

Barabbas

Name: Barabbas
Director: Richard Fleischer
Released: 1961
Duration: 137 min

Representation Score

4.3/10

Fair

1961

Approved

Director

Richard Fleischer

Runtime

137 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Barabbas is a psychological epic that critically examines Roman imperial power. By focusing on a Mediterranean protagonist, the film avoids a solely Anglo-Saxon perspective, highlighting the tension between the colonized and the Roman occupiers. However, the film is constrained by the patriarchal norms of its time. The narrative is dominated by male characters, leaving female characters with minimal influence or depth. The absence of LGBTQ+ identities and the superficial handling of physical injuries further limit the film's scope. Ultimately, the film excels as a study of systemic victimhood and resistance, despite being confined by the social norms typical of its genre.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Barabbas have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film strictly follows the social structures of the first century and does not include any non-straight or non-cisgender identities or same-sex relationships.

How does Barabbas portray gender?

Limited

The story focuses mainly on male characters, emphasizing their spiritual and political struggles. Female characters are given less important roles within the social structure.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Barabbas?

Good

Anthony Quinn's casting highlights a Mediterranean/Middle Eastern perspective for the main character. The film effectively shows the ethnic differences between the Jewish population and the Roman rulers.

How does Barabbas represent religion and culture?

Good

The film critiques Roman imperial power and religious corruption. It portrays a complex protagonist dealing with systemic oppression and rebellion.

Does Barabbas include disability representation?

Minimal

Physical injuries are used primarily as a plot device within the context of gladiatorial combat. The film does not explore neurological conditions or lived experiences with disabilities in depth.

Present on Screen

Anthony Quinn's casting provides a non-Anglo-Saxon identity for the main character.
The film offers a sophisticated critique of Roman imperial authority and systemic oppression.
It explores complex themes of moral relativism and resistance against institutional dominance.

Limited or Absent

Female characters are underrepresented and play minor roles.
There is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender characters.
Physical disabilities are used as plot devices rather than nuanced character studies.

Official Synopsis

Epic account of the thief Barabbas, who was pardoned for his crimes and spared crucifixion when Pilate offered the Israelites a choice to pardon Barabbas or Jesus. Struggling with his spirituality, Barabbas goes through many ordeals leading him to the gladiatorial arena, where he tries to win his freedom and confront his inner demons, ultimately becoming a follower of the man who was crucified in his place.

How are these scores produced? →