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A Madder Red

Name: A Madder Red
Director: Yuya Ishii
Released: 2021
Duration: 144 min

Representation Score

5.3/10

Fair

2021

Director

Yuya Ishii

Runtime

144 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

A Madder Red is a realistic look at the breakdown of the idealized family unit. It replaces the idea of domestic stability with a picture of survival, emphasizing the struggle to navigate flawed social systems. The film stands out by shifting the focus from male providers to a female protagonist, highlighting systemic issues related to economic support and elder care. However, the film's limited scope to a homogeneous Japanese setting and lack of LGBTQ+ representation restricts its broader social impact.

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Category Breakdown

Does A Madder Red have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on a fractured family structure that assumes everyone is straight. There are no LGBTQ+ characters or stories about non-straight identities.

How does A Madder Red portray gender?

Good

Ryoko is the main economic and emotional support of her household. The film challenges the traditional idea of the male provider by highlighting female resilience and independence.

How racially and ethnically diverse is A Madder Red?

Limited

The story is set in a mostly homogenous Japanese society. It doesn't explore diverse racial backgrounds, focusing instead on class issues.

How does A Madder Red represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative criticizes the lack of stability in modern institutions and social safety nets. It shows the traditional family as a place where members face labor and systemic pressures.

Does A Madder Red include disability representation?

Fair

The film examines the vulnerability of the elderly through the father-in-law's care in a nursing home. It also looks at the psychological impact of bullying and social isolation.

Present on Screen

Highlights female autonomy and economic resilience in challenging traditional gender roles.
Critiques systemic failures and the inadequacy of social safety nets.
Examines the real-life burdens of modern caregiving.

Limited or Absent

Could include more diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Needs to represent and address LGBTQ+ identities.
Should broaden its focus to include a wider range of social issues.

Official Synopsis

7 years ago, Yoichi died in a traffic accident. His wife Ryoko did not receive compensation from her husband's death. She has since raised her son Junpei by herself. Junpei is now a middle school student. Ryoko also cares for her father-in-law, who lives in a nursing home and she also runs a cafe. Her care is in a difficult situation due to Covid-19, while Junpei experiences bullying at school.

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