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The Silhouettes

Name: The Silhouettes
Director: Afsaneh Salari
Released: 2020
Duration: 80 min

Representation Score

4.4/10

Fair

2020

Director

Afsaneh Salari

Runtime

80 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film stands out for its thorough exploration of ethnic identity and the 'othering' of Afghan populations. By focusing on intra-regional migration, it challenges Eurocentric documentary clichés and highlights the systemic discrimination faced by displaced individuals. However, the narrative lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities and physical or neurodivergent disabilities, which limits its overall inclusivity. Overall, the documentary offers a critical perspective on regional power dynamics and the complexities of ethnic belonging.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Silhouettes have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any documented themes or characters related to LGBTQ+ identities.

How does The Silhouettes portray gender?

Fair

The story revolves around a male protagonist named Taghi. Although the documentary format allows for various perspectives on migration, there are no specific depictions of gender hierarchy subversion.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Silhouettes?

Excellent

This work deeply explores ethnic identity and the 'othering' of Afghan populations. It highlights the experiences of non-Western subjects through the lens of intra-regional migration.

How does The Silhouettes represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The narrative addresses systemic oppression and the shortcomings of institutional structures. It emphasizes the human cost of geopolitical conflicts rather than nationalist sentiments.

Does The Silhouettes include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no visible evidence of the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities in this film.

Present on Screen

Offers a profound exploration of ethnic identity and the 'othering' of Afghan populations.
Highlights the ability to act of non-Western subjects through the lens of intra-regional migration.
Critiques systemic oppression and the failures of institutional structures.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities.
Provides no visible evidence of physical or neurodivergent disability representation.
Focuses heavily on a single male protagonist.

Official Synopsis

In 1982, when the Russian invasion of Afghanistan was at its peak, more than 1.5 million inhabitants had to move to Iran looking for a new life. Taghi, born in Iran, wants to escape the ruthless discriminations Afghans are subjected to on a daily basis. Against all odds, he decides to move back to the country of his parents. But unexpected challenges await there for him.

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