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The Northman

Name: The Northman
Director: Robert Eggers
Released: 2022
Duration: 137 min

Representation Score

5.7/10

Fair

2022

Director

Robert Eggers

Runtime

137 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The Northman emphasizes historical and mythic accuracy over modern demographic diversity. By focusing on the specific cultural and ethnic realities of 10th-century Scandinavia, the film naturally lacks the diverse representation seen in contemporary cinema. However, the film finds progressive value by challenging traditional moral views. It replaces idealized notions of stability with a complex cycle of tribalism and revenge. While it scores low on traditional LGBTQ+ and disability representation, it succeeds in providing depth to female characters and a nuanced look at historical social structures.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Northman have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film follows the social norms of 10th-century Vikings and does not depict non-straight or non-binary identities. It focuses on heterosexual relationships and family lines.

How does The Northman portray gender?

Fair

Women such as Olga and Queen Gudrún play significant roles in driving the story within a patriarchal society. The film passes the Bechdel test through conversations between women about survival and politics.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Northman?

Limited

The cast primarily features Northern Europeans to match the historical setting. While it does not have diverse casting, it portrays a complex social hierarchy that includes enslaved individuals called thralls.

How does The Northman represent religion and culture?

Good

The story explores the tension between Norse paganism and early Christianity. It challenges traditional moral views by focusing on tribal codes and revenge.

Does The Northman include disability representation?

Limited

The film does not feature characters with disabilities as central to the story. While there is frequent physical combat, disability is not a main theme.

Present on Screen

Women like Olga have significant influence and ability to act in the story.
The film passes the Bechdel test through meaningful conversations between women.
It offers a nuanced look at historical social hierarchies and systemic inequalities.
The narrative challenges traditional moral views through cultural conflict.

Limited or Absent

The film does not include non-straight or non-binary gender identities or same-sex relationships.
The cast is ethnically homogeneous, reflecting a narrow historical context.
Characters with visible or invisible disabilities are not represented centrally.

Official Synopsis

Prince Amleth is on the verge of becoming a man when his father is brutally murdered by his uncle, who kidnaps the boy's mother. Two decades later, Amleth is now a Viking who's on a mission to save his mother, kill his uncle and avenge his father.

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