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Pinocchio

Name: Pinocchio
Director: Matteo Garrone
Released: 2019
Duration: 124 min

Representation Score

5.4/10

Fair

2019

PG-13

Director

Matteo Garrone

Runtime

124 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Matteo Garrone’s adaptation transforms the whimsical fairy tale into a gritty, realistic portrayal of 19th-century poverty. By setting the fantasy in a harsh, impoverished environment, the film shifts the focus from simple morality to the harsh realities faced by the working class. The narrative dismantles traditional Western moralities, presenting a world where survival shapes behavior. This provides a nuanced, anti-capitalist message that sets it apart from more sanitized versions of the story. However, the film remains limited in its range of representation. It lacks LGBTQ+ characters and does not offer female characters significant influence or control, sticking closely to traditional historical structures.

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Category Breakdown

Does Pinocchio have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any identifiable LGBTQ+ characters or stories. It stays focused on a traditional, rural historical setting without exploring queer themes.

How does Pinocchio portray gender?

Fair

The story centers around the father-son relationship between Geppetto and Pinocchio. While it avoids typical male leadership roles, it does not give female characters much influence or control.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Pinocchio?

Fair

The cast mainly consists of people from the same rural area, reflecting a specific Italian setting. However, using non-professional actors adds a sense of real-life authenticity.

How does Pinocchio represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film criticizes institutions such as the Church and the legal system. Instead of traditional moral teachings, it presents a gritty, anti-capitalist fight for survival.

Does Pinocchio include disability representation?

Fair

There are no central characters with disabilities or neurodivergence. The film focuses on the general physical struggles caused by extreme poverty.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional Western moralities and simplistic good versus evil dichotomies.
Provides a strong critique of institutions like the Church and the legal system.
Uses non-professional actors to enhance the authenticity of the setting.
Explores the harsh realities of systemic poverty and material survival.

Limited or Absent

Does not include identifiable LGBTQ+ characters or narratives.
Female characters lack meaningful influence or control within the story.
No specific portrayals of neurodivergence or physical disability.
Limited racial and ethnic diversity in the cast.

Official Synopsis

Old woodcarver Geppetto fashions a wooden puppet, Pinocchio, who magically comes to life. Pinocchio longs for adventure and is easily led astray, encountering magical beasts, fantastical spectacles, while making friends and foes along his journey. However, his dream is to become a real boy, which can only come true if he finally changes his ways.

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