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The Shepherd

Name: The Shepherd
Director: László Illés
Released: 2019
Duration: 91 min

Representation Score

4.2/10

Fair

2019

Director

László Illés

Runtime

91 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Shepherd is a period drama that examines moral decision-making amid systemic oppression in 1944 Hungary. It moves beyond simple hero clichés by focusing on the protection of a persecuted ethnic minority through the lens of a grieving protagonist. The film effectively engages with multi-layered vulnerability, particularly regarding ethnic persecution. By centering the struggle of Jewish lives against a dominant, oppressive system, it provides a powerful critique of historical institutional failures. However, the narrative's driving force remains heavily focused on a male protagonist, limiting the exploration of gendered perspectives.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Shepherd have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any explicit references to LGBTQ+ characters or themes. There are no specific details about queer identities in the narrative.

How does The Shepherd portray gender?

Fair

The story revolves around the death of the protagonist's daughter, which serves as a key catalyst for his character development. This focus highlights the gendered vulnerability of women during historical conflicts.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Shepherd?

Good

The film centers on the survival and empowerment of Jewish individuals during the Holocaust. It emphasizes cross-cultural solidarity by featuring a non-Jewish shepherd who protects the Jewish characters.

How does The Shepherd represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The movie critiques totalitarianism by portraying the Nazi regime as a corrupt and oppressive institution. It prioritizes human life and situational ethics over rigid state loyalty.

Does The Shepherd include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities mentioned in the provided context.

Present on Screen

Strong emphasis on cross-cultural solidarity and the protection of persecuted ethnic minorities.
Effective critique of totalitarianism and state-sanctioned authority through moral decision-making.
Meaningful engagement with historical trauma and the subversion of traditional power structures.

Limited or Absent

The narrative focuses mainly on a male protagonist, limiting gendered perspectives.
No representation of LGBTQ+ identities or characters with disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Hungary, 1944 - The main character is an old shepherd, who lives alone on a ranch. After his daughter got killed by Nazis, he decided in his grief to save as many Jewish lives as possible.

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