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Chrysanthemum

Name: Chrysanthemum
Director: Christian Bengtson
Released: 2022
Duration: 90 min

Representation Score

2.2/10

Limited

2022

Director

Christian Bengtson

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Chrysanthemum is a localized character study that prioritizes the reconstruction of the nuclear family over broader social exploration. The narrative focuses on generational trauma and the socioeconomic pressures of rural life. While the film avoids polished mainstream clichés by favoring a raw, naturalistic approach, it remains within the bounds of conventional dramatic storytelling. It lacks depth in representing various identity-based categories, focusing instead on interpersonal dynamics and personal guilt.

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Category Breakdown

Does Chrysanthemum have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses solely on the relationship between Thomas and Anders, which is assumed to be heterosexual. There are no representations of LGBTQ+ identities or critiques of straight-centered relationships.

How does Chrysanthemum portray gender?

Fair

The story centers around masculine archetypes and the provider role. It adheres to traditional frameworks of labor and stoicism without challenging gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Chrysanthemum?

Limited

The narrative depicts a homogeneous, rural family unit. There is no indication of a multi-ethnic cast or diverse racial perspectives within the setting.

How does Chrysanthemum represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film explores morality by framing illegal trade as a tool for survival and reconciliation. It remains rooted in conventional social structures emphasizing family loyalty.

Does Chrysanthemum include disability representation?

Minimal

The character arcs do not include any mention of neurodivergence, physical disabilities, or mental health conditions.

Present on Screen

The film frames illegal commerce as a means for familial healing and survival, disrupting moral binaries.
Christian Bengtson uses a raw, naturalistic approach to character dynamics, avoiding sanitized commercial clichés.

Limited or Absent

The narrative relies heavily on traditional masculine archetypes and stoic provider roles.
The story lacks representation of diverse racial, ethnic, or LGBTQ+ identities.
There is no exploration of disability or neurodivergence within the character arcs.

Official Synopsis

After many years of separation, landscaper and part time dealer of illegal fireworks – Anders – is contacted by his father Thomas who is about to lose the family farm. To help his father, Anders returns home and starts a larger production of illegal fireworks and begins shipping it through the family's freight company. Through the traffic of fireworks, the family finds a way towards reconciliation and forgiveness for the first time since the family tragedy twenty years ago which Anders feels responsible for.

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