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Teeth

Name: Teeth
Director: Gabriele Salvatores
Released: 2000
Duration: 96 min

Representation Score

3.6/10

Limited

2000

Director

Gabriele Salvatores

Runtime

96 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Teeth is a psychological drama that focuses on the individual struggle of a specific male character. The narrative centers on his insecurities and the impact of his unique physical condition. While it offers a glimpse into the experience of being an outcast, it lacks deeper multi-layered exploration. The film's reliance on a homogeneous cast and traditional power dynamics limits its progressive impact.

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Category Breakdown

Does Teeth have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include explicit LGBTQ+ narratives or characters with non-cisgender identities. Romantic tension revolves around heterosexual relationships and the protagonist's tumultuous interactions with women.

How does Teeth portray gender?

Limited

The story emphasizes a male-centric viewpoint. Women mainly serve as catalysts for the protagonist's psychological issues or as recipients of his controlling behavior.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Teeth?

Limited

The cast and setting are predominantly white and European. The film does not explore multi-layered identities or feature a diverse ethnic ensemble.

How does Teeth represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story centers on the protagonist's internal struggles with identity and aesthetics. It does not critically examine traditional institutions such as religion or the family structure.

Does Teeth include disability representation?

Fair

The protagonist's condition, which causes unusual physical traits, drives the plot. However, the portrayal of this condition borders on the 'freakish' cliché, emphasizing social alienation and obsession.

Present on Screen

Focuses on a physical abnormality as a central plot driver.
Provides a nuanced look at individual neurosis and fragile social bonds.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from broader demographic representation and systemic critiques.
Depends on a homogeneous cast and traditional, dysfunctional gendered power dynamics.
The portrayal of physical abnormality sometimes leans towards the 'freakish' cliché.

Official Synopsis

Antonio is a man born with unusually large incisors; his freakishly huge teeth made him an outcast as a child and as man he has become obsessive and controlling in his relationships with women. Convinced that his girlfriend cheated on him (with her dentist, ça va sans dire), Antonio insults her in a fit of anger and in the fight she breaks off one of his teeth. Antonio now must travel across the country, going from dentist to dentist in search of someone who can make a crown that will suit his extra-large smile.

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