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Mistresses

Name: Mistresses
Director: Elena Hazanova
Released: 2019
Duration: 97 min

Representation Score

5.5/10

Fair

2019

Director

Elena Hazanova

Runtime

97 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Mistresses is a narrative of female reclamation that disrupts traditional gendered power dynamics. By turning personal domestic grievances into a collective movement, the film empowers its female protagonists to move beyond passive victimhood. However, the film lacks multi-layered depth. The focus remains on a localized Moscow social circle, offering little evidence of racial or ethnic diversity. The absence of disability representation further limits the scope of its social commentary. Ultimately, while the film excels at portraying women's ability to drive the story and challenging patriarchal structures, it operates within a relatively narrow social and demographic framework.

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Category Breakdown

Does Mistresses have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film highlights female solidarity and shared betrayal. Although same-sex intimacy isn't confirmed, the story hints at potential queer-coded subtext by questioning traditional monogamy.

How does Mistresses portray gender?

Good

Female characters show a significant role in driving the story by shifting from victims of infidelity to active agents of retribution. The plot challenges traditional hierarchies by positioning women as the main drivers of action.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Mistresses?

Fair

Set in Moscow, the story seems focused on a localized, likely homogeneous social environment. There is no indication of racial complexity or a diverse, non-white cast.

How does Mistresses represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story criticizes traditional social contracts and patriarchal institutions like marriage. It frames infidelity as a systemic issue, challenging conventional domestic morality through collective female grievance.

Does Mistresses include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no mention of characters with physical, sensory, or neurodivergent disabilities. The film lacks representation in this area entirely.

Present on Screen

Strong portrayal of women's ability to drive the story and collective action.
Effective challenge of traditional gender hierarchies and power dynamics.
Engaging narrative focus on female solidarity and empowerment.

Limited or Absent

Lack of racial and ethnic diversity within the cast.
Absence of representation for characters with disabilities.
Limited evidence of non-straight or LGBTQ+ identities.

Official Synopsis

Three young women living in Moscow found out that their partners are married to other women. Coping with this news at the bar, they decide to seek revenge for each other. When the job is done, it turns out that there are thousands of women caught in the same situation, hurt and cheated on by unfaithful husbands. All of these offended women want revenge. Our ladies can help with this.

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