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Liliom

Name: Liliom
Director: Frank Borzage
Released: 1930
Duration: 94 min

Representation Score

1.7/10

Minimal

1930

Director

Frank Borzage

Runtime

94 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Liliom is a period piece that reflects the limited social perspectives of 1930. It lacks diverse representation, relying on homogeneous casting and traditional gender roles common to the era. Despite these limitations, the film provides depth through its portrayal of the working class. It avoids simplistic moralism by framing the protagonist's struggles within a complex socioeconomic and spiritual context. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its social realism and emotional complexity rather than its commitment to modern representation standards.

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Category Breakdown

Does Liliom have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film centers on a heterosexual relationship between Liliom and Julie. There are no depictions of LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender characters.

How does Liliom portray gender?

Fair

Julie plays a key role in providing emotional support and guidance. However, the story relies on traditional gender stereotypes, particularly the destructive character of the male drifter.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Liliom?

Minimal

The cast is primarily white with little diversity. The film does not include characters from different racial backgrounds.

How does Liliom represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative offers a detailed look at the lives of working-class individuals. It explores themes of redemption through personal experiences rather than strict religious doctrine.

Does Liliom include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities featured as central plot devices or subjects of ridicule.

Present on Screen

Provides a nuanced critique of the hardships faced by working-class urban residents.
Offers moral complexity by framing redemption through a personal, subjective lens.
Highlights the struggles of characters living on the fringes of legality.

Limited or Absent

Lacks any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender characters.
Relies on traditional gender stereotypes and does not challenge existing hierarchies.
Features a homogeneous cast with minimal racial or ethnic diversity.

Official Synopsis

A carousel barker falls in love with a young woman. Both are fired from their jobs, and when the young woman becomes pregnant, the carousel barker tries to help pull off a robbery, which goes wrong. Because of the robbery, he dies, and after spending time in hell, is sent back to earth for one day to try to make amends. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive.

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