You are here:

The Lion of Thebes

Name: The Lion of Thebes
Director: Giorgio Ferroni
Released: 1964
Duration: 89 min

Representation Score

0.5/10

Minimal

1964

Not Rated

Director

Giorgio Ferroni

Runtime

89 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The Lion of Thebes is a traditional sword-and-sandal epic that prioritizes classical mythological archetypes over modern social issues. It reflects the Eurocentric casting and moral hierarchies of the 1960s European studio system. The film’s narrative structure revolves around divine retribution and the inevitability of fate. This focus on religious fatalism and established social hierarchies prevents the exploration of diverse identities or progressive representation. Ultimately, the production adheres strictly to the conventional formulas of its genre, reinforcing rather than challenging the status quo of the ancient world it depicts.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The Lion of Thebes have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not depict any non-straight relationships or same-sex intimacy. It centers on traditional family structures based on the Oedipus myth.

How does The Lion of Thebes portray gender?

Limited

Female characters such as Jocasta have high social standing but their actions are controlled by the male protagonist and divine prophecy. Traditional feminine roles are used as fixed elements within the tragic framework.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Lion of Thebes?

Limited

The cast is primarily white and Eurocentric, typical of 1960s Italian historical epics. There is no intentional mixing of ethnicities or color-blind casting.

How does The Lion of Thebes represent religion and culture?

Minimal

The narrative emphasizes the absolute authority of the gods and divine will. It portrays divine monarchy and the sanctity of lineage as unchallenged truths.

Does The Lion of Thebes include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not focus on any visible or invisible disabilities. Characters are depicted through heroic or tragic archetypes without addressing neurodivergence or physical impairments.

Present on Screen

The film maintains a faithful adherence to the classical tragic structures and archetypes of Greek mythology.

Limited or Absent

The production lacks ethnic diversity, relying on a predominantly Eurocentric cast.
The narrative reinforces traditional gender hierarchies and lacks women's ability to drive the story.
There is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or characters with disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Fleeing Troy in the wake of its destruction, fair-faced Helen and her faithful protector Arion run into the pharaoh Ramses, who sets his sights on Helen -- and is subsequently murdered. Now it's up to Arion to save Helen from those who wish her dead.

How are these scores produced? →