You are here:

Astoria, Queens

Name: Astoria, Queens
Director: Kyle Thomas Coker
Released: 2009
Duration: 21 min

Representation Score

5.7/10

Fair

2009

Director

Kyle Thomas Coker

Runtime

21 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The film sets a postmodern tone by reimagining classic storytelling in a contemporary urban context. By placing the misfit protagonists in a gritty Astoria, Queens setting, the film highlights their unique subjective experiences. The narrative effectively addresses the overlapping aspects of queer identity. Jimboy’s goal to become a successful gay rapper disrupts traditional expectations and expands the boundaries of hip-hop culture. Despite moving away from typical suburban themes, the film lacks clarity regarding the roles of female characters and the portrayal of disabilities. While the setting suggests diversity, the focus remains narrow.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Astoria, Queens have LGBTQ+ representation?

Good

The film centers around a 'coming out party' that serves as a turning point for the main character. Jimboy challenges social norms by aiming to become a successful gay rapper in the rap industry.

How does Astoria, Queens portray gender?

Fair

Thom's character arc revolves around personal liberation and discovering his identity. However, the narrative does not provide enough detail about the roles and actions of female characters.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Astoria, Queens?

Fair

Set in Astoria, Queens, the film showcases a diverse urban environment. The story explores various cultural spaces through its depiction of the rap industry.

How does Astoria, Queens represent religion and culture?

Good

The film reinterprets The Wizard of Oz using a postmodern perspective, emphasizing individual experiences and personal authenticity over traditional moral stories.

Does Astoria, Queens include disability representation?

Minimal

The available information provides no evidence regarding the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Present on Screen

Reimagines coming-of-age stories with a focus on queer identity.
Explores the intersection of queer identity and hip-hop culture.
Highlights a diverse urban setting to move away from homogeneous storytelling.

Limited or Absent

Does not provide visible representation or mention of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.
Offers limited insight into the roles and actions of female characters.
Remains focused on specific identities, neglecting other demographic groups.

Official Synopsis

Inspired by ‘The Wizard of Oz’, four Kansas City twentysomething misfits navigate their new lives in the Emerald City of New York. Newly single Thom, our Dorothy, discovers NYC in a second “coming out party”. Jimboy, the brainless Scarecrow, wants to become the first gay white rap superstar.

How are these scores produced? →