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On Wings of Eagles

Name: On Wings of Eagles
Director: Stephen Shin Kei-Yin
Released: 2016
Duration: 96 min

Representation Score

4.8/10

Fair

2016

PG-13

Director

Stephen Shin Kei-Yin

Runtime

96 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

On Wings of Eagles succeeds in diversifying the historical war drama genre by focusing on China and using an international co-production model. It avoids the typical Western-centric perspective by featuring a multi-ethnic cast. However, the film adheres to traditional 'Great Man' storytelling, which centers on a singular male protagonist and his religious beliefs. This limits the exploration of gender ability to act and social identities beyond the central historical figure. Overall, the film offers a more geographically and ethnically inclusive experience compared to standard Western historical dramas, though it maintains conventional narrative structures regarding gender and morality.

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Category Breakdown

Does On Wings of Eagles have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or explore themes related to non-straight identities. The plot focuses on missionary work and the legacy of war heroes in China.

How does On Wings of Eagles portray gender?

Fair

The story revolves around male-dominated spheres of international sports and military operations. Female characters play supporting roles, and their influence seems secondary to the main male protagonist’s journey.

How racially and ethnically diverse is On Wings of Eagles?

Good

The film features a prominent Chinese lead alongside Western actors, providing a balanced view of ethnic perspectives during the Japanese occupation.

How does On Wings of Eagles represent religion and culture?

Good

The story examines the tension between personal faith and the violence of wartime through the lens of a biographical historical narrative.

Does On Wings of Eagles include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no indication of physical or neurodivergent disabilities being portrayed in the film.

Present on Screen

The film features a multi-ethnic cast and avoids the 'white savior' cliché by focusing on China's socio-political reality.
It provides a non-Western setting that challenges traditional historical war drama clichés.
The international co-production model offers a balanced distribution of ethnic perspectives.

Limited or Absent

The focus on a central male figure limits the ability to act and depth of female characters.
The film lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight explorations.
The biographical framework may restrict the film's ability to offer radical critiques of institutions.

Official Synopsis

Eric Liddell - China's first gold medalist and one of Scotland's greatest athletes - returns to war-torn China.

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