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12.12: The Day

Name: 12.12: The Day
Director: Kim Sung-soo
Released: 2023
Duration: 142 min

Representation Score

2.4/10

Limited

2023

Director

Kim Sung-soo

Runtime

142 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

12.12: The Day is a historical drama that emphasizes political and institutional critique over broad demographic representation. It centers on the masculine hierarchies of military command during a critical period in South Korean history. While the film may lack in traditional measures of gender and LGBTQ+ representation, it provides a sophisticated cultural analysis. Its narrow demographic focus is a result of its commitment to historical accuracy, focusing on the specific power dynamics of 1979.

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Category Breakdown

Does 12.12: The Day have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on a historical and military context where there are no visible LGBTQ+ characters or narratives exploring non-straight relationships.

How does 12.12: The Day portray gender?

Minimal

The movie portrays a traditional, patriarchal military structure where women play minor roles and are not involved in central decision-making processes.

How racially and ethnically diverse is 12.12: The Day?

Fair

The cast reflects the ethnic homogeneity of the South Korean setting, avoiding casting actors from different backgrounds to stay true to the historical context.

How does 12.12: The Day represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film highlights the breakdown of command and the corruption of state institutions, showing how democratic norms can fail systemically.

Does 12.12: The Day include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities, and neurodivergence or chronic illness are not central to the narrative.

Present on Screen

Offers a sophisticated critique of institutional stability and the fragility of democratic norms.
Maintains historical accuracy by reflecting the ethnic homogeneity of the period.
Provides a nuanced look at how centralized power structures can be undermined by corruption.

Limited or Absent

Lacks gender diversity, with the narrative primarily driven by male characters.
Does not include any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight relationships.
Includes no characters with visible or invisible disabilities.

Official Synopsis

After the assassination of President Park, martial law has been declared. A coup d'état bursts out by Defense Security Commander Chun Doo-gwang and a private band of officers following him. Capital Defense Commander Lee Tae-shin, an obstinate soldier who believes the military should not take political actions, fights against Chun Doo-gwang to stop him. The conflict between the two grows while military leaders are holding their decision and Defense Minister is gone. In the midst of chaos, the spring of Seoul that everyone longed for heads to unexpected direction.

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