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Zen in the Ice Rift

Name: Zen in the Ice Rift
Director: Margherita Ferri
Released: 2018
Duration: 87 min

Representation Score

5.8/10

Fair

2018

Director

Margherita Ferri

Runtime

87 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Zen in the Ice Rift is a character-driven study of adolescence that centers on the tension between individual identity and communal expectations. It succeeds by positioning the protagonist's non-conformity as a catalyst for a transformative journey rather than a character flaw. The film's strength lies in its challenge to traditional gender norms and its exploration of identity outside of social norms. By focusing on the bond between Maia and Vanessa, it offers a meaningful look at non-traditional interpersonal dynamics. However, the film remains localized within a homogeneous setting, offering little in the way of racial or ethnic diversity. Additionally, there is no depiction of visible or invisible disabilities impacting the character arcs or the narrative trajectory.

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Category Breakdown

Does Zen in the Ice Rift have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film explores identity through the growing relationship between Maia and Vanessa. Their journey of self-discovery challenges the village's narrow focus on straight relationships.

How does Zen in the Ice Rift portray gender?

Good

Maia challenges traditional gender roles as a tomboy with a strong, masculine attitude. Her non-conformity creates friction within the community, highlighting the rigidity of gender norms.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Zen in the Ice Rift?

Fair

Set in a small Italian mountain village, the cast appears relatively homogeneous. The film reflects the specific local demographic without utilizing diverse casting to disrupt the setting.

How does Zen in the Ice Rift represent religion and culture?

Good

The story critiques traditional social structures and restrictive community norms. The protagonists' journey prioritizes individual truth over the constraints of their established village life.

Does Zen in the Ice Rift include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no visible or invisible disabilities depicted that impact the character arcs or the narrative trajectory.

Present on Screen

Effectively challenges traditional gender hierarchies through the protagonist's masculine attitude.
Provides a meaningful exploration of identity and self-discovery outside of social norms.
Critiques restrictive community structures by prioritizing individual truth over social stability.

Limited or Absent

Lacks racial and ethnic diversity, reflecting a highly homogeneous mountain village setting.
Does not feature any representation of visible or invisible disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Maia, called ZEN, a rowdy yet solitary 16-year-old tomboy living in a small village on top of the Italian Apennines, is the only girl of the local ice hockey-team and she is constantly bullied by her teammates for her masculine attitude. When Vanessa – the beautiful and bewildered girlfriend of the team captain – runs away from home and hides in Maia‘s family lodge, Maia feels free to trust someone for the first time: they both embark on a journey of self-discovery exploring their inner desires and their identity.

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