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The Arborist

Name: The Arborist
Director: Andrew Mudge
Released: 2025
Duration: 100 min

Representation Score

1.8/10

Minimal

2025

TV-MA

Director

Andrew Mudge

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Arborist is a character-driven psychological thriller centered around a female protagonist navigating personal trauma. While the film offers a departure from male-dominated horror clichés by featuring a strong female lead, it adheres to conventional genre structures without challenging societal hierarchies. Diversity is limited, with a notable absence of LGBTQ+ and disability representation. The cast includes actors with diverse backgrounds, but the narrative remains focused on individual experiences within a traditional estate setting. Overall, the film emphasizes personal psychological stakes over broader systemic or multi-layered issues.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Arborist have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any visible LGBTQ+ characters or themes related to non-traditional gender identities. There is no exploration of straight-centered relationships.

How does The Arborist portray gender?

Fair

A female protagonist leads the story, focusing on her professional work and personal grief. However, the film does not explicitly challenge traditional gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Arborist?

Limited

The cast includes actors with names suggesting some ethnic diversity, such as Chloe Trejo. However, the story is set in a localized, mysterious estate with a narrow focus.

How does The Arborist represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative explores grief and the breakdown of the family unit within a haunting setting. It does not address broader systemic or cultural issues.

Does The Arborist include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no indication of neurodivergence or physical disabilities. Mental health or physical conditions are not central to the narrative.

Present on Screen

Features a strong female protagonist leading the horror genre.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and individuals with disabilities.
Focuses on individual trauma rather than broader systemic or cultural critiques.

Official Synopsis

A grief-stricken arborist and her son awaken a haunting when they begin felling trees at the estate of a mysterious recluse.

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