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The Shanghai Cobra

Name: The Shanghai Cobra
Director: Phil Karlson
Released: 1945
Duration: 64 min

Representation Score

1.5/10

Minimal

1945

Director

Phil Karlson

Runtime

64 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Shanghai Cobra is primarily a traditional mystery thriller. While the inclusion of a non-white lead character challenges the homogeneity of mid-century Hollywood, the film lacks deeper exploration of multiple aspects of identity. The narrative focuses on solving crimes and restoring order, rather than critiquing social structures or hierarchies. Overall, the film remains a straightforward mystery without the complexity needed for a higher progressive score.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Shanghai Cobra have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex relationships. It also does not challenge the assumption that everyone is straight.

How does The Shanghai Cobra portray gender?

Limited

The story centers around a male detective investigating a crime. It follows the traditional gender roles typical of 1940s crime films.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Shanghai Cobra?

Fair

The inclusion of Charlie Chan as a lead character provides a contrast to the era's usual white leads. However, the film still lacks diverse representation.

How does The Shanghai Cobra represent religion and culture?

Limited

The plot follows a standard mystery structure focused on restoring order. It does not address religious or cultural critiques.

Does The Shanghai Cobra include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no information available about the portrayal of disabilities or neurodivergent identities in this film.

Present on Screen

Charlie Chan's central role provides a notable contrast to the typical white leads of the 1940s.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks deeper exploration of multiple aspects of identity and fails to challenge social hierarchies.
The narrative adheres to traditional gender roles and does not highlight women's ability to drive the story.

Official Synopsis

Someone is attempting to steal radium stored in a bank. Death by cobra venom connects a number of murders. Charlie Chan investigates.

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