You are here:

Pulsar

Pulsar

Representation Score

6.0/10

Fair

2018

Director

Aurora Fearnley

Runtime

17 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Pulsar stands out in the science fiction and horror genres by challenging traditional casting and narrative norms. It moves away from the 'white default' often seen in space exploration by featuring actors of color in central roles. This intentionality fosters a more inclusive speculative environment. Director Aurora Fearnley brings a fresh perspective to a genre typically dominated by male voices. By focusing on a protagonist's refusal to adhere to institutional mandates, the film emphasizes individual ethics over state-driven objectives. This adds a layer of social commentary to the cosmic setting. However, the film's representation is uneven. While racial and gender casting is progressive, there is no visible LGBTQ+ identities or disability representation. The narrative focus remains tightly centered on a singular protagonist's moral crisis.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Pulsar have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include explicit representations of LGBTQ+ identities or relationships that go beyond the assumption that everyone is straight. There is no visible queer subtext.

How does Pulsar portray gender?

Good

The story centers around a male protagonist, but includes prominent female actors like Jessie Buckley and Tahirah Sharif, which helps balance the cast and avoids the lone male hero cliché.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Pulsar?

Good

Casting actors of color such as David Gyasi and Tahirah Sharif in key roles breaks the tradition of predominantly white casts in science fiction. This provides significant opportunities for diverse representation.

How does Pulsar represent religion and culture?

Good

The plot delves into themes of institutional morality and personal ethics through a protagonist who resists systemic mandates. A solar storm is portrayed as a curse, adding a layer of cosmic retribution.

Does Pulsar include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no discernible evidence regarding the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities within the provided narrative or cast details.

Present on Screen

  • Features strong racial diversity through the casting of David Gyasi and Tahirah Sharif in central roles.
  • Subverts sci-fi clichés by featuring a female director in a traditionally male-dominated genre.
  • Highlights individual ethics and ability to act through a narrative that challenges institutional authority.

Limited or Absent

  • Does not include explicit representations of LGBTQ+ identities or relationships.
  • Does not portray physical or neurodivergent disabilities.
  • Narrative focus remains heavily centered on a singular protagonist's internal conflict.

Official Synopsis

A Peacemaker, who rejects his final mission to save an endangered planet, is believed to be cursed when a solar storm hits his spaceship.

How are these scores produced? →

Where to Watch

Rate this Movie

No rating selected
Use arrow keys to select a rating from 1 to 5 stars
Optional text review, maximum 2000 characters
Tip: Wrap spoilers with ||double pipes|| to hide them
0/2000 characters
You must be signed in to submit a rating

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!

Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.