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Pilgrimage

Name: Pilgrimage
Director: João Botelho
Released: 2017
Duration: 109 min

Representation Score

3.0/10

Limited

2017

Director

João Botelho

Runtime

109 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Pilgrimage is a stylized, historically accurate adaptation that emphasizes literary and historical fidelity over contemporary demographic diversity. Its focus on 16th-century social structures naturally limits the inclusion of diverse identities. Despite low scores for LGBTQ+ and racial representation, the film stands out in its intellectual critique of power structures. It uses its purgatorial setting to challenge the perceived moral superiority of religious and aristocratic institutions. Ultimately, the film serves more as a critique of historical hierarchies than a modern exploration of identity, resulting in a score reflective of its period-specific constraints.

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Category Breakdown

Does Pilgrimage have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include explicit representations of LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex relationships. It follows traditional storylines typical of its 16th-century setting.

How does Pilgrimage portray gender?

Fair

Women in the film are shown as widows and courtesans within the social norms of the time. Although they operate within existing hierarchies, the film subjects them to the same moral scrutiny as men, challenging traditional roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Pilgrimage?

Limited

The cast primarily features actors of European descent, reflecting the historical context of 16th-century Portugal. There is no indication of casting actors from different racial backgrounds.

How does Pilgrimage represent religion and culture?

Good

The film effectively critiques Western institutions, particularly the clergy and aristocracy. It employs a moralistic perspective to question the perceived righteousness of these ruling classes.

Does Pilgrimage include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no significant depiction of physical or cognitive disabilities within the narrative.

Present on Screen

Sophisticated critique of institutional power and systemic corruption.
Effective satire targeting the clergy and the aristocracy.
Challenges traditional gender roles by subjecting women to universal moral scrutiny.

Limited or Absent

Lack of LGBTQ+ identities and relationships.
Limited racial and ethnic diversity due to adherence to historical accuracy.
No characters representing physical or cognitive disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Adventurer, pilgrim, penitent but above all outstanding writer, Fernão Mendes Pinto left us an unparalleled romance, the living and human palpitation of one of the greatest historical adventures of man.

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