
Once Upon a Time in Shanghai
2014

Representation Score
Fair
1996
RDirector
Adolfo Swaya
Runtime
95 minutes
Average Rating
No ratings yetNew Showbiz Analysis
Paper Dragons is a typical example of 1990s action cinema. It stands out by using a predominantly East Asian cast, which adds significant racial diversity. However, the film’s narrative structure adheres to traditional genre conventions, reinforcing conventional masculine roles and lacking the complexity needed to challenge social hierarchies. The plot relies on familiar crime clichés, which limits its ability to explore deeper societal issues.
Category Breakdown
The film does not include characters with non-binary genders or stories that question the assumption that everyone is straight. The story focuses on a male protagonist and his training, which emphasizes traditional masculine roles.
The story revolves around a male hero's journey through traditional training methods. Despite having a female character, the hierarchy seems to reinforce conventional masculine strength.
The film features a mostly East Asian cast, providing significant racial diversity. This casting choice allows characters of color to play important roles within the story.
The monastery setting introduces a non-Western cultural perspective. However, the plot relies on familiar crime genre clichés without deeply examining broader societal issues.
The film does not feature any characters dealing with physical, neurological, or sensory disabilities.
Present on Screen
Limited or Absent
Official Synopsis
A small-time hood, left for dead after double-crossing drug dealers, is taken in by a monastery and taught the art of kung fu.

2014

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