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Synonyms

Name: Synonyms
Director: Nadav Lapid
Released: 2019
Duration: 123 min

Representation Score

6.3/10

Good

2019

Unrated

Director

Nadav Lapid

Runtime

123 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Synonyms is a film that uses language to explore national identity. It shifts away from traditional immigrant assimilation stories to focus on the symbolism of language and political radicalization. The film's strength lies in its deep exploration of post-colonial themes and the tension between inherited nationality and globalized identity. It presents the protagonist's journey as a postmodern critique of the state. However, the film narrows its focus primarily on political and linguistic themes, lacking specific representation for LGBTQ+ identities and characters with disabilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does Synonyms have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not explicitly include LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight relationships. It touches on identity fluidity but does not give characters much control over their LGBTQ+ experiences.

How does Synonyms portray gender?

Fair

Women in the film are shown to be intellectually and ideologically strong, playing key roles in activism. The film avoids portraying women in submissive roles, instead showing them as active participants in social change.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Synonyms?

Good

The film explores the experiences of Israelis living abroad and the challenges of being an outsider in Europe. It delves into post-colonial themes and the complexity of ethnic identity.

How does Synonyms represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film provides a sophisticated look at Western institutions and nationalistic ideas. It focuses on anti-capitalist themes and dismantling traditional social structures.

Does Synonyms include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not prominently depict characters with visible or invisible disabilities that play central roles in the plot or character development.

Present on Screen

Sophisticated exploration of the Israeli diaspora and post-colonial themes.
Women portrayed as intellectually active political participants.
Critical engagement with Western institutions and anti-capitalist ideologies.

Limited or Absent

No explicit LGBTQ+ representation or non-straight character control.
No characters with visible or invisible disabilities.
Limited focus on diverse romantic or social identities outside political contexts.

Official Synopsis

A young Israeli man absconds to Paris to flee his nationality, aided by his trusty Franco-Israeli dictionary.

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