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The Paper Tigers

The Paper Tigers

Representation Score

6.3/10

Good

2020

PG-13

Director

Quoc Bao Tran

Runtime

108 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The Paper Tigers is a culturally specific film that challenges the typical Anglo-centric dominance in the action genre. By centering an Asian-American community and martial arts tradition, it offers a unique perspective. However, the film falls short in representing LGBTQ+ and disability identities, limiting its scope to the specific experiences of the central male ensemble. The film's strength lies in its authentic portrayal of an ethnic experience within a genre often dominated by Western archetypes.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Paper Tigers have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not include any visible queer identities. The story focuses solely on the camaraderie among the central male characters without exploring diverse sexual orientations or gender identities.

How does The Paper Tigers portray gender?

Fair

The story revolves around a male-dominated group of older men. It does not provide significant roles for women, focusing instead on the vulnerabilities and struggles of the male ensemble.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Paper Tigers?

Excellent

The film stands out by featuring an almost entirely Asian-American cast and centers the plot around their community. This breaks away from the typical Anglo-centric dominance in the action genre.

How does The Paper Tigers represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative delves into the daily struggles of working-class individuals maintaining a small dojo. It offers a detailed look at the socioeconomic realities faced by local communities.

Does The Paper Tigers include disability representation?

Limited

The film does not prominently feature characters with visible or invisible disabilities. The plot focuses on the physical aging of the characters rather than addressing neurodivergence or chronic illnesses.

Present on Screen

  • Breaks away from Anglo-centric dominance by focusing on an Asian-American community and martial arts tradition.
  • Challenges hyper-masculine clichés by depicting protagonists as ordinary and struggling rather than invincible heroes.
  • Offers a nuanced view of socioeconomic realities through the lens of underrepresented small business owners.

Limited or Absent

  • Needs to include more diverse representations of LGBTQ+ characters and identities.
  • Should provide more significant roles for women to challenge the patriarchal dojo setting.
  • Could benefit from integrating characters with visible or invisible disabilities as key players in the plot.

Official Synopsis

Three middle aged men polish their martial arts skills to avenge their fallen master.

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