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The Fortress

Name: The Fortress
Director: Hwang Dong-hyuk
Released: 2017
Duration: 140 min

Representation Score

5.2/10

Fair

2017

Director

Hwang Dong-hyuk

Runtime

140 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Fortress offers a sophisticated critique of traditional notions of national pride and leadership. Instead of glorifying patriotism, it delves into the complexities of moral ambiguity and the failure of established systems. The film examines the tension between upholding a nation and ensuring the survival of its people, providing a nuanced perspective on sovereignty.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Fortress have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-binary gender roles. It stays true to the historical context of 17th-century Joseon, where there is no visible presence of diverse sexual orientations or gender identities.

How does The Fortress portray gender?

Limited

The story centers around masculine power structures such as military command, reinforcing traditional gender roles. Female characters are present but play minor roles in the main conflict.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Fortress?

Fair

The plot highlights the geopolitical tensions between Joseon and Manchu identities. The cast is primarily Korean, but the Manchu invaders are portrayed as a distinct ethnic group representing an opposing force.

How does The Fortress represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film questions the rigid adherence to traditional values by contrasting honorable sacrifice with pragmatic survival. It critiques how outdated institutions can hinder effective responses to crises.

Does The Fortress include disability representation?

Limited

The film does not emphasize neurodivergence or physical disabilities as key drivers of the narrative. The impact of war on individuals is shown but not explored in depth.

Present on Screen

Offers a sophisticated deconstruction of traditional notions of national pride and leadership.
Explores the moral ambiguities and tensions between honor and survival.
Subverts the standard heroic war movie cliché with a nuanced narrative.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from greater visibility of LGBTQ+ identities and non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth narratives.
Centers masculine power structures, reinforcing traditional gender roles.
Lacks focus on neurodivergent and physically disabled characters.

Official Synopsis

Ancient Korea, 17th century. The powerful Khan of the Jurchen tribe of Manchuria, who fights the Ming dinasty to gain China, becomes the first ruler of the Qing dinasty and demands from King In-jo of Joseon to bow before him; but he refuses, being loyal to the Mings. On December 14th, 1636, the Qing horde invades Joseon, so King In-jo and his court shelter in the mountain fortress of Namhan and prepare to defend the kingdom.

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