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The Science of Fictions

Name: The Science of Fictions
Director: Yosep Anggi Noen
Released: 2020
Duration: 106 min

Representation Score

8.1/10

Excellent

2020

Director

Yosep Anggi Noen

Runtime

106 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Science of Fictions is a sophisticated exploration of post-colonial identity and the impact of mediated reality. Its greatest strength lies in its localized, non-Western perspective, which challenges the dominance of Anglo-centric narratives through an Indonesian lens. However, the film's focus is narrow. By concentrating almost entirely on a singular male protagonist's psychological descent, it misses opportunities for broader gender and LGBTQ+ representation. The narrative structure remains traditional in its character focus. Ultimately, the film succeeds as a profound study of perception. It uses physical and mental disability not merely as plot points, but as tools to examine how individuals navigate systemic silencing and cultural imposition.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Science of Fictions have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not explicitly depict LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight relationships. Instead, it focuses on the protagonist's internal psychological state and his relationship with cinematic imagery.

How does The Science of Fictions portray gender?

Fair

The narrative centers on the male experience of isolation and lacks significant roles for women or a clear challenge to traditional gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Science of Fictions?

Excellent

The film stands out by featuring an Indonesian cast and setting. It uses a local man's interactions with foreign film crews to explore post-colonial themes.

How does The Science of Fictions represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The story employs a postmodern approach to examine how Western technological myths influence and alter local life. It highlights how external narratives reshape local realities.

Does The Science of Fictions include disability representation?

Good

The protagonist's journey is marked by the loss of his tongue and his perceived madness. The film delves into his actions and how he copes with a world that has silenced him.

Present on Screen

Provides a powerful, non-Western perspective by centering Indonesian settings and casts.
Uses cinematic fiction as a sophisticated metaphor for post-colonial experiences and cultural imposition.
Offers a nuanced portrayal of disability, exploring actions through the protagonist's physical and mental struggles.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight relationships.
The heavy focus on a singular male experience limits gender diversity and female roles.
The narrative structure adheres to a traditional, singular-focus character study.

Official Synopsis

Siman discover a foreign crew shooting a moon landing. He gets caught and his tongue is cut off. He goes through life in slow motion, imitating an astronaut in outer space, labeled as crazy.

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