You are here:

Alpha

Alpha

Representation Score

9.4/10

Excellent

2025

R

Director

Julia Ducournau

Runtime

128 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Alpha offers a sophisticated look at identity during a biological crisis. By focusing on a Berber family and a female-led household, the film effectively breaks down traditional social hierarchies and Western family models. The narrative uses body horror to explore physical vulnerability and addiction, offering a nuanced view of illness. While LGBTQ+ specifics remain subtle, the film's focus on fluid identities suggests a progressive approach to relationships. Overall, the film's strength lies in its global perspective and its avoidance of simplistic moralizing, opting instead for a complex study of bodily autonomy and systemic instability.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Alpha have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film explores a growing relationship between Alpha and Adrien in a coming-of-age setting. Although specific LGBTQ+ identities are not confirmed, the story hints at moving away from traditional assumptions about relationships.

How does Alpha portray gender?

Good

The story focuses on a female-led household where the mother is a professional doctor and a key authority figure. This avoids the usual focus on male leadership roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Alpha?

Excellent

The film provides depth through North African perspectives, featuring a Berber mother and uncle. A diverse cast helps move the story beyond Anglo-centric views.

How does Alpha represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film challenges the idea of a perfect Western family by examining addiction and family problems. It uses a fictional disease called 'Red Wind' to criticize systemic issues and traditional institutions.

Does Alpha include disability representation?

Good

The film uses body horror to explore physical changes and illnesses. It also delves into mental health and neurological issues through the uncle's struggle with heroin addiction.

Present on Screen

  • Provides depth through North African perspectives and casting.
  • Disrupts traditional gender hierarchies by highlighting actively leading female professionals and caregivers.
  • Challenges conventional family structures through realistic portrayals of addiction and struggle.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks explicit confirmation of LGBTQ+ identities within the narrative.
  • Portrayal of addiction and illness may risk leaning into tragic plot drivers.

Official Synopsis

Alpha, a troubled 13-year-old lives with her single mom. Their world collapses the day she returns from school with a tattoo on her arm.

How are these scores produced? →

Where to Watch

Rate this Movie

No rating selected
Use arrow keys to select a rating from 1 to 5 stars
Optional text review, maximum 2000 characters
Tip: Wrap spoilers with ||double pipes|| to hide them
0/2000 characters
You must be signed in to submit a rating

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!

Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.