You are here:

This Merry Planet

Name: This Merry Planet
Director: Yuri Saakov, Yuri Tsvetkov
Released: 1973
Duration: 94 min

Representation Score

4.4/10

Fair

1973

Director

Yuri Saakov, Yuri Tsvetkov

Runtime

94 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

This 1973 Soviet musical comedy prioritizes satirical exploration of human nature over contemporary storytelling that reflects multiple aspects of identity. It uses the science fiction genre to examine the absurdity of social customs through the eyes of cynical extraterrestrials. The film's diversity is primarily conceptual. While it lacks racial or LGBTQ representation, it offers a cultural critique of institutional rigidity by valuing human emotional quirks over ideological dogma. Ultimately, the work is a product of its historical context, serving as comedic escapism that celebrates human eccentricity rather than deconstructing social hierarchies.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does This Merry Planet have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film centers on comedic interactions between aliens and human customs. It does not depict non-traditional gender identities or same-sex relationships.

How does This Merry Planet portray gender?

Fair

The cast includes prominent female roles, but the plot often revolves around male characters like the young astronomer. Characters tend to serve as archetypal figures within a celebratory environment.

How racially and ethnically diverse is This Merry Planet?

Fair

The cast is predominantly uniform, mirroring the domestic Soviet demographic of the time. Diversity is symbolic, using aliens as metaphors for the 'other' rather than representing ethnic variety.

How does This Merry Planet represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative employs satire to critique scientific and state institutions. It highlights human eccentricity and emotional idiosyncrasies over rigid ideologies or institutional structures.

Does This Merry Planet include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities. Such traits are not used as plot devices in the film.

Present on Screen

Uses science fiction as a satirical tool to critique rigid social and scientific institutions.
Provides a unique cultural perspective by valuing human emotional quirks over ideological dogma.
Features a balanced ensemble cast with notable female leads.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-traditional gender expressions.
Maintains a homogeneous cast reflective of its specific Soviet-era demographic.
Relies on male-driven plot ability to act rather than challenging traditional gender hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

Three cynical and emotionally detached aliens arrive on earth on New Year's eve with the mission of exploring and studying human behaviour but inevitably get pulled into a hillarious, nonsensical plot which makes them realize just how wonderful earth life can be with all its quirks, drama and humour.

How are these scores produced? →