You are here:

The Thief of Baghdad

The Thief of Baghdad

Representation Score

0.8/10

Minimal

1961

Approved

Director

Arthur Lubin, Bruno Vailati

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The film is a quintessential mid-century fantasy adventure that prioritizes escapism over social complexity. It adheres to traditional Hollywood genre conventions, reinforcing established social hierarchies rather than challenging them. The narrative relies heavily on Westernized aesthetics and archetypes. While the protagonist undergoes a standard redemption arc, the film lacks the intentionality needed to provide authentic representation of its Middle Eastern setting. Ultimately, the work functions as a product of its era, utilizing simplified cultural depictions and conventional gender roles to drive its hero's journey.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The Thief of Baghdad have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film follows a strictly heterosexual storyline, focusing on a male character pursuing a princess. There are no characters with non-traditional gender identities.

How does The Thief of Baghdad portray gender?

Limited

Amina serves mainly as a catalyst for the male protagonist's journey. Her role is limited, with the narrative driven by male-led quests and potions.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Thief of Baghdad?

Limited

The production features a predominantly white cast playing Middle Eastern roles, which can create a disconnect between the setting and the actors' backgrounds.

How does The Thief of Baghdad represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story presents a simplified, mythic version of Baghdad designed for Western audiences. It follows a standard Western adventure framework without delving into deeper cultural critiques.

Does The Thief of Baghdad include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities that serve as central narrative drivers or plot devices.

Present on Screen

  • Offers a classic, enchanting hero's journey through a traditional redemption arc.
  • Provides a timeless and escapist fantasy adventure suitable for family audiences.

Limited or Absent

  • Relies on Hollywood Orientalism and a white-centric cast for Middle Eastern roles.
  • Features limited women's ability to drive the story, treating the princess primarily as a plot catalyst.
  • Lacks authentic cultural depth, opting for a simplified mythic version of Baghdad.

Official Synopsis

When Karim impersonates a prince Osman, he steals the heart of Amina the Sultans daughter. The real prince intends to get Amina back by giving her a love potion. But his plan backfires and Amina becomes deathly ill. Karim must make it through 7 doors to retrieve the only thing that can save his love-a mystical blue rose. A timeless, enchanting story!

How are these scores produced? →

Where to Watch

Rate this Movie

No rating selected
Use arrow keys to select a rating from 1 to 5 stars
Optional text review, maximum 2000 characters
Tip: Wrap spoilers with ||double pipes|| to hide them
0/2000 characters
You must be signed in to submit a rating

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!

Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.