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Phases of Matter

Phases of Matter

Representation Score

3.7/10

Limited

2020

Director

Deniz Tortum

Runtime

71 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Phases of Matter functions as an observational study of existence rather than a vehicle for identity-driven storytelling. It prioritizes existential inquiry and the deconstruction of boundaries between the physical and the ephemeral over active identity politics. The film's strength lies in its potential for moral relativism and its focus on the fragility of human structures. By moving between the operating room and the morgue, it explores the liminal spaces of life and death. However, the work lacks explicit markers of characters who reflect more than one aspect of diversity. There are no defined LGBTQ+ narratives or overt subversions of gender and racial hierarchies present in the material.

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Category Breakdown

Does Phases of Matter have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities. It focuses on biological and physical transitions within a clinical environment.

How does Phases of Matter portray gender?

Limited

The story centers on a solitary male protagonist in a scientific role, emphasizing clinical and biological realities. There is little evidence of women's ability to drive the story or subversion of traditional gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Phases of Matter?

Fair

Set in Istanbul, the film addresses a culturally complex location. However, it does not provide sufficient evidence of a non-white majority cast or specific multi-layered character depth.

How does Phases of Matter represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film adopts a secular, materialist perspective by focusing on scientific inquiry. It challenges traditional religious views of death by exploring the transition between the real and the virtual.

Does Phases of Matter include disability representation?

Fair

The hospital setting inherently involves bodily limitations and medical interventions. It remains unclear if characters with disabilities are treated as agents or merely as subjects of observation.

Present on Screen

  • Explores profound existential themes regarding the transition between life and death.
  • Uses a secular, scientific framework to deconstruct traditional views of mortality.
  • Offers a unique observational perspective on the liminal spaces of a teaching hospital.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks explicit LGBTQ+ representation or narratives addressing non-cisgender identities.
  • Provides little evidence of women's ability to drive the story or subversion of traditional gender hierarchies.
  • Does not demonstrate intentional progressive casting or deep multi-layered character development.

Official Synopsis

Phases of Matter follows living and inanimate residents of a teaching hospital in Istanbul, moving from the operating room to the morgue, between life and other states, the real and the virtual.

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