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Chosen

Name: Chosen
Director: Ang Lee
Released: 2001
Duration: 10 min

Representation Score

5.8/10

Fair

2001

Not Rated

Director

Ang Lee

Runtime

10 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Chosen stands out in the action genre by centering Asian identity and incorporating non-Western spiritual motifs. By placing a ritualistic journey at the heart of a high-octane urban pursuit, the film challenges the typical Western-centric structure of the genre. While the film excels in racial and cultural representation, it remains limited in terms of gender and LGBTQ+ diversity. The focus stays strictly on the central pursuit involving the Driver and the child, leaving other identities unexplored. Ultimately, the work succeeds in disrupting conventional expectations through its casting and thematic depth, even if it lacks broader social representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does Chosen have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include any explicit depictions of LGBTQ+ identities or dynamics that challenge straight-centered assumptions.

How does Chosen portray gender?

Fair

The story primarily features male-coded characters, with no female characters shown in positions of strength or intellect.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Chosen?

Excellent

The film challenges traditional action genre clichés by centering an Asian child in a modern, urban setting. This choice moves away from the usual Anglo-centric focus.

How does Chosen represent religion and culture?

Excellent

Non-Western spiritual practices are highlighted through a monk and a ritualistic journey, suggesting a pluralistic approach to morality and cultural themes.

Does Chosen include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no visible or invisible disabilities portrayed in the narrative. No information is available regarding neurodivergence or physical disability.

Present on Screen

Centers an Asian protagonist to disrupt traditional Anglo-centric action clichés.
Incorporates non-Western spiritual motifs through the inclusion of a monk and ritualistic elements.
Provides a sophisticated, cross-cultural perspective through the direction of Ang Lee.

Limited or Absent

Does not explicitly represent LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight-centered dynamics.
Features limited female characters in positions of strength or intellect.
Provides no depiction of characters with visible or invisible disabilities.

Official Synopsis

The Driver is carrying an Asian child who has been chosen for a strange ritual. He must drive him through a dark night in the city to get to a monk's house, while eluding several American cars out to get the child.

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