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Harragas

Name: Harragas
Director: Merzak Allouache
Released: 2009
Duration: 95 min

Representation Score

3.3/10

Limited

2009

Director

Merzak Allouache

Runtime

95 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Harragas presents a compelling look at the migrant crisis from a non-Western viewpoint, emphasizing the psychological desperation of those escaping economic hardship. It successfully centers the experiences of the Global South and criticizes the failures of state institutions. However, the film lacks depth in representing multiple aspects of identity. It is heavily focused on male characters, and there is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities within the social context. The film's strength lies in its insightful critique of Western economic dominance and its portrayal of migration as a response to systemic issues rather than just moral failings.

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Category Breakdown

Does Harragas have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any explicit LGBTQ+ characters or stories. The main focus is on the struggles of migrants.

How does Harragas portray gender?

Limited

The story focuses mainly on male characters, with women playing minor roles. Men make most of the key decisions related to migration.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Harragas?

Excellent

The film highlights a diverse group of African and Arab migrants, challenging the idea that migration experiences are uniform.

How does Harragas represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The movie offers a strong critique of Western economic systems, showing illegal migration as a necessary response to economic stagnation.

Does Harragas include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities that play a central role in the story.

Present on Screen

Offers a strong critique of Western economic systems.
Features a diverse group of African and Arab migrants.
Frames migration as a response to systemic issues.

Limited or Absent

Focuses primarily on male characters.
Does not include LGBTQ+ representation.
Women have limited involvement in the central plot.

Official Synopsis

Set in the northern Algerian port city of Mostaganem. The title refers to the hordes of refugees, the 'Harragas', who smuggle themselves out of the country via any means possible. Here we meet one such group, Rachid, Nasser and Imene who pay a smuggler, Hassan, to take them to Spain in his rickety boat. Along with a group of African and Arab migrants, they are risking all they have to cross the stormy Straits.

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