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Behind the Rising Sun

Name: Behind the Rising Sun
Director: Edward Dmytryk
Released: 1943
Duration: 88 min

Representation Score

1.3/10

Minimal

1943

Director

Edward Dmytryk

Runtime

88 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Produced during World War II, this film centers on the Philippine resistance. It successfully portrays Filipino characters as active agents in their liberation. However, it adheres to traditional gender roles and lacks diversity in other social dimensions. The film avoids the 'white savior' cliché by emphasizing local resistance but fails to represent LGBTQ+ identities or individuals with disabilities. The narrative is heavily influenced by the social norms of the 1940s, presenting a binary view of the conflict that reinforces Western institutional authority. Ultimately, the film serves as a tool for national cohesion, though it falls short in representing diverse identities and experiences.

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Category Breakdown

Does Behind the Rising Sun have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any identifiable LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities. The story focuses solely on military mobilization and wartime social structures.

How does Behind the Rising Sun portray gender?

Limited

Male soldiers and guerrilla leaders drive the main plot, taking on significant roles. Female characters are limited to domestic or supportive positions, reinforcing traditional gender roles of the mid-20th century.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Behind the Rising Sun?

Fair

Filipino characters are central to the story and play active roles in their own liberation. However, the racial dynamics are strictly binary, framed by the wartime alliance against Japan.

How does Behind the Rising Sun represent religion and culture?

Minimal

The story promotes strong patriotism and supports American military intervention. It presents a clear distinction between liberating Western forces and oppressive Axis powers.

Does Behind the Rising Sun include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no representation of physical or neurodivergent disabilities. Characters are defined almost entirely by their physical abilities needed for guerrilla warfare.

Present on Screen

Filipino characters are depicted as central protagonists with significant roles in the resistance movement.
The film avoids the 'white savior' cliché by highlighting local tactical importance and liberation efforts.

Limited or Absent

The narrative reinforces traditional gender hierarchies by centering male combatants and limiting women to supportive roles.
The film lacks multi-layered complexity, presenting a strictly binary racial and political framework.
There is a total absence of representation for LGBTQ+ identities and individuals with disabilities.

Official Synopsis

A Japanese publisher urges his American-educated son to side with the Axis.

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