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Ma

Name: Ma
Director: Celia Rowlson-Hall
Released: 2015
Duration: 80 min

Representation Score

7.1/10

Good

2015

Not Rated

Director

Celia Rowlson-Hall

Runtime

80 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Ma is an experimental film that emphasizes physical experience over traditional storytelling. It stands out in its gendered portrayal, transforming the female subject from a passive object into an active agent of physical autonomy. However, the minimalist approach limits the film's broad appeal. The lack of racial and LGBTQ+ representation restricts its impact on diverse social issues, making it a niche, singular experience. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in challenging traditional gender and religious narratives through movement, even though it remains focused on a single perspective.

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Category Breakdown

Does Ma have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film doesn't include explicit LGBTQ+ identities or relationships. However, it focuses on the body's movements in ways that align with queer theories interested in non-traditional experiences.

How does Ma portray gender?

Excellent

The film centers on the female body's strength and independence. The main character isn't passive but is defined by her own physical presence rather than traditional roles or relationships with men.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Ma?

Limited

The film features a single white female performer in a simple setting. There is no diversity in the cast or visual elements.

How does Ma represent religion and culture?

Good

The film reinterprets religious symbols by focusing on the Virgin Mary through a physical, secular perspective. It replaces religious teachings with repetitive, ritualistic movements and personal experiences.

Does Ma include disability representation?

Fair

The film doesn't have specific stories about disabilities but explores physical endurance and the limits of the body. This focus on the body in space suggests a sensory-focused experience.

Present on Screen

Transforms the female subject from a passive object into an active agent of physical autonomy.
Reinterprets religious symbols through a physical, secular perspective.
Disrupts conventional cinematic expectations with ritualistic movements.

Limited or Absent

Lacks racial and ethnic diversity within the cast and visual landscape.
Doesn't depict explicit LGBTQ+ identities or relationships.
Doesn't feature specific, character-driven narratives about disabilities.

Official Synopsis

In this modern-day vision of Mother Mary's pilgrimage, a woman crosses the American Southwest playfully deconstructing the woman’s role in a world of roles.

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