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Birth of Civilization

Name: Birth of Civilization
Director: Jacques Malaterre
Released: 2007
Duration: 105 min

Representation Score

3.2/10

Limited

2007

Director

Jacques Malaterre

Runtime

105 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Birth of Civilization serves as a large-scale historical reconstruction of the first 8,000 years of human history. Its diversity is largely a byproduct of its subject matter rather than a deliberate attempt at characters who reflect more than one aspect of diversity. The film succeeds in avoiding Western-centric clichés by centering human origins in a global, pre-colonial context. However, it fails to include LGBTQ+ or disability-focused narratives. The emphasis on physical survival and biological milestones results in a lack of representation for non-normative identities.

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Category Breakdown

Does Birth of Civilization have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary does not feature any LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. The focus is on major evolutionary milestones and biological reproduction.

How does Birth of Civilization portray gender?

Fair

The film explores the transition from nomadic to agricultural societies through shifting labor divisions. It examines how social roles were established without necessarily challenging traditional hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Birth of Civilization?

Fair

Due to its prehistoric subject matter, the film avoids a homogeneous white norm. It reflects diverse migratory patterns and early human ethnic evolutions.

How does Birth of Civilization represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative explores early human spirituality and pre-institutional morality. It examines the roots of systemic power through the shift from communal life to organized society.

Does Birth of Civilization include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no evidence of characters with disabilities being portrayed with ability to act. Survival-focused narratives often omit perspectives of neurodivergent or physically disabled individuals.

Present on Screen

Avoids a homogeneous white norm by focusing on diverse prehistoric migratory patterns.
Provides a global, pre-colonial perspective on the origins of humanity.
Explores early human spirituality and the roots of social power dynamics.

Limited or Absent

Lacks intentional representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight-centered narratives.
Omits perspectives of neurodivergent or physically disabled individuals in survival contexts.
Does not actively work to subvert traditional gendered social hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

With the help of state of the art special effects, this National Geographic documentary attempts to recreate what civilization looked like during the first 8,000 years that human beings lived on Earth.

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