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The International

Name: The International
Director: Ahmed Medhat
Released: 2009
Duration: 92 min

Representation Score

2.0/10

Limited

2009

Director

Ahmed Medhat

Runtime

92 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film presents a traditional sports drama centered on the professional journey of an Egyptian athlete. It successfully highlights regional institutions such as Al-Ahly and the Egyptian national team, offering a non-Western perspective on success. However, the narrative operates within a narrow framework, focusing almost exclusively on a male-centric journey of individual merit and institutional loyalty. This results in a lack of representation for women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities. While the film is culturally significant due to its regional focus, it does not challenge established social hierarchies or incorporate diverse social identities, remaining a conventional story of athletic achievement.

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Category Breakdown

Does The International have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature any LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities. The story focuses solely on the protagonist's athletic career.

How does The International portray gender?

Limited

The story revolves around a male protagonist in a male-dominated professional environment. Female characters do not play significant roles, and there is no representation of gender diversity.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The International?

Good

The film highlights Egyptian culture and institutions, providing a platform for non-Western storytelling through the lens of national identity.

How does The International represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative emphasizes traditional structures of meritocracy and national pride, celebrating the protagonist's journey within established clubs and institutions.

Does The International include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with physical, sensory, or neurodivergent disabilities. The focus is entirely on the athletic abilities of the protagonist.

Present on Screen

Provides important regional visibility by centering an Egyptian perspective and local cultural institutions.
Offers a platform for non-Western storytelling through the lens of national identity and success.

Limited or Absent

Lacks gender diversity and visible women's ability to drive the story within the narrative structure.
Does not include representation for LGBTQ+ identities or characters with disabilities.
Operates within conventional storytelling frameworks without challenging established social hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

Malek is an aspiring football player in a small club. He soon proves his efficiency and skills, so he joins Al-Ahly club and leads the Egyptian national team to a victory after another.

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