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The Pariah

Name: The Pariah
Director: José Giovanni
Released: 1972
Duration: 102 min

Representation Score

2.9/10

Limited

1972

Director

José Giovanni

Runtime

102 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Pariah (1972) is a traditional genre piece that emphasizes existentialist themes over demographic diversity. It serves as a character study of social alienation rather than a diverse ensemble piece. While the film lacks representation of diverse racial and ethnic identities, it provides a sophisticated critique of institutional authority. It challenges the 'law and order' archetype by presenting a morally ambiguous view of societal structures. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its narrative structure and its exploration of the tension between the individual and the state, despite its largely homogeneous social landscape.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Pariah have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film primarily focuses on the experiences of men within the Marseille underworld, with no depiction of same-sex relationships or non-binary gender identities.

How does The Pariah portray gender?

Limited

Women play minor roles in the film, serving mainly as supporting characters to the central male-driven storyline and the psychological states of the male protagonists.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Pariah?

Limited

The film portrays a predominantly homogeneous society within the criminal underworld, without showcasing diverse ethnic backgrounds or challenging the era's social norms.

How does The Pariah represent religion and culture?

Good

The film successfully explores moral ambiguity and questions traditional authority, framing state institutions as oppressive forces and emphasizing the subjective experiences of those sidelined by societal norms.

Does The Pariah include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no indication within the film that disabilities, either visible or invisible, are used as central character traits or plot devices.

Present on Screen

Offers a nuanced critique of institutional authority and state oppression.
Explores complex themes of existentialism and social alienation.
Provides a sophisticated deconstruction of traditional moral arbiters.

Limited or Absent

Lacks meaningful representation of diverse racial and ethnic identities.
Features a heavily male-centric narrative with minimal female involvement.
Provides no visibility for LGBTQ+ identities or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth characters.

Official Synopsis

For more than 15 years, two Marseille friends and criminals battle the law, rival gangs, prison authorities and even mined beaches in order to survive.

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