You are here:

Darkland

Name: Darkland
Director: Fenar Ahmad
Released: 2017
Duration: 112 min

Representation Score

6.6/10

Good

2017

Not Rated

Director

Fenar Ahmad

Runtime

112 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Darkland sets itself apart by challenging the typically homogenous portrayal of Scandinavian thrillers. By focusing on a Middle Eastern heart surgeon, the film questions the dominance of white protagonists in the thriller genre and explores the complexities of dual identities. However, the film still adheres to conventional gender roles and lacks LGBTQ+ representation. The narrative structure reinforces traditional masculine roles of protector and avenger. Overall, the film's strength lies in its exploration of racial diversity and its critical examination of institutional failures, despite following traditional masculine storytelling conventions.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Darkland have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film doesn't make a special effort to include LGBTQ+ characters or stories. It focuses on heterosexual relationships and male-dominated criminal activities.

How does Darkland portray gender?

Fair

The story follows traditional gender roles where women, like the pregnant partner, mainly serve to motivate the male protagonist's actions.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Darkland?

Excellent

The film stands out by featuring a Middle Eastern protagonist in a prestigious professional position. It presents the diverse reality of Copenhagen in a thoughtful, non-stereotypical way.

How does Darkland represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The narrative offers a sophisticated look at how systemic failures and corruption push underrepresented individuals towards unconventional survival methods.

Does Darkland include disability representation?

Limited

There is no significant focus on visible or invisible disabilities. Physical violence drives the plot rather than exploring neurodivergence or chronic illness.

Present on Screen

Challenges the typical Scandinavian thriller by centering a protagonist of Middle Eastern descent.
Provides a thoughtful look at immigrant communities and a multicultural Copenhagen.
Offers a sophisticated critique of systemic institutional failures and corruption.

Limited or Absent

Doesn't intentionally include LGBTQ+ characters or stories.
Follows traditional gender roles and patriarchal motivations.
Female characters lack independent ability to act and mainly function as plot catalysts.

Official Synopsis

Zaid is a successful heart surgeon with an expensive apartment and pregnant girlfriend. One night he gets a visit from his brother Yasin, who is desperate for money, but he refuses. Soon after, Yasin is found beaten to death and Zaid is overcome with guilt. As guilt gives way to anger, Zaid becomes a masked avenger and takes on Copenhagen's criminal underworld in his quest for justice.

How are these scores produced? →