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Tropico

Tropico

Representation Score

7.0/10

Good

2013

Director

Anthony Mandler

Runtime

27 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Tropico is a sophisticated exercise in narrative deconstruction that embeds progressive values into a mythic reimagining. It moves beyond including someone from a minority group without giving them real depth by utilizing high-concept fantasy to challenge the dominance of Western religious imagery. The film centers multi-layered identities, disrupting conventional expectations of gender and racial archetypes. By blending religious iconography with pop-culture deities, it diminishes the authority of traditional institutions, creating a postmodern exploration of identity and desire.

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Category Breakdown

Does Tropico have LGBTQ+ representation?

Good

The film features Shaun Ross, a Black transgender model, as Adam, challenging traditional gender norms. By casting Shaun Ross, the movie introduces a non-binary character to a foundational myth, disrupting conventional expectations.

How does Tropico portray gender?

Good

Lana Del Rey’s dual roles as Eve and Mary offer a nuanced look at femininity. The narrative reframes Eve’s actions as a pursuit of autonomy, moving away from the typical submissive or deceptive stereotype.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Tropico?

Good

The production uses a 'race-bent' approach to mythological archetypes. Casting a Black man as Adam breaks the Eurocentric visual standards usually found in traditional Biblical storytelling.

How does Tropico represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film uses a postmodern, camp aesthetic to critique Western institutional pillars. It juxtaposes religious figures with pop-culture icons like Elvis Presley to explore subjective morality and human complexity.

Does Tropico include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no discernible evidence regarding the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities within the film.

Present on Screen

  • Subverts traditional religious archetypes through non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth casting.
  • Reframes the biblical 'fall' as a moment of women's ability to drive the story and autonomy.
  • Challenges Eurocentric visual standards by diversifying the portrayal of Adam.
  • Critically deconstructs Western cultural and religious icons through a camp aesthetic.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks any discernible representation of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Based on the Biblical story of sin and redemption, Adam and Eve explore modern LA; the land of gods and monsters.

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