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Father & Soldier

Name: Father & Soldier
Director: Mathieu Vadepied
Released: 2023
Duration: 109 min

Representation Score

6.5/10

Good

2023

Director

Mathieu Vadepied

Runtime

109 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Father & Soldier challenges Eurocentric war narratives by focusing on the experiences of West African soldiers. It shifts the emphasis from traditional Western heroism to the struggles of colonial subjects facing systemic oppression. The film succeeds in reclaiming historical space for underrepresented voices by critiquing the power dynamics of colonial recruitment and imperial institutions. While the film excels in racial and cultural representation, it remains centered around masculine themes typical of the war genre.

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Category Breakdown

Does Father & Soldier have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

There are no explicit LGBTQ+ characters or narratives in the film.

How does Father & Soldier portray gender?

Fair

The story focuses on the bond between a father and his son. Female characters have limited influence, but the film highlights their emotional strength.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Father & Soldier?

Excellent

The film features a predominantly non-white cast. It gives African soldiers significant roles and deep psychological development.

How does Father & Soldier represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film criticizes Western imperialism by portraying the French military as oppressive. It contrasts national duty with family survival.

Does Father & Soldier include disability representation?

Fair

The film examines the physical and mental trauma of trench warfare. However, it does not specifically address neurodivergence or chronic illnesses.

Present on Screen

Highlights the Black experience in a traditionally white-dominated genre.
Gives African soldiers significant roles and deep psychological development.
Criticizes the power dynamics of colonial recruitment and imperial institutions.

Limited or Absent

Female characters have limited influence due to historical setting and genre constraints.
No explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities.
Minimal focus on specific neurodivergent or chronic disability character arcs.

Official Synopsis

1917. Bakary Diallo enlists in the French army to join his 17-year-old son, Thierno, who has been forcibly recruited. Sent to the front, they will have to face the war together. While Thierno learns to become a man, Bakary will do everything to bring him back safely.

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