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14 Apples

Name: 14 Apples
Director: Midi Z
Released: 2018
Duration: 84 min

Representation Score

4.1/10

Fair

2018

Director

Midi Z

Runtime

84 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Midi Z’s documentary is a sophisticated ethnographic study that avoids idealizing hardship. It excels by exploring the intersection of religious devotion and economic survival, providing a grounded view of Southeast Asian life. The film's strength lies in its portrayal of ethnic and migrant identities. By focusing on the systemic pressures of migration and the pragmatic nature of faith, it offers a realistic look at how individuals navigate modern statehood and capitalism. However, the film lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and disability. The narrative is primarily centered on the male protagonist's spiritual journey and the broader socioeconomic struggles of the local community.

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Category Breakdown

Does 14 Apples have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. The story focuses on the protagonist's spiritual journey and the socioeconomic conditions of the community.

How does 14 Apples portray gender?

Fair

Women in the village are portrayed as having significant roles in the community, both economically and through acts of generosity. Men drive the main storyline, but women are shown to have ability to act and avoid submissive stereotypes.

How racially and ethnically diverse is 14 Apples?

Excellent

The documentary offers a detailed exploration of Southeast Asian identity, examining migration patterns between Myanmar, China, Thailand, and Malaysia from a local perspective.

How does 14 Apples represent religion and culture?

Good

The film critiques traditional religious institutions by depicting monks involved in economic activities. It presents the monastery as a place where economic interests intersect with spiritual practices.

Does 14 Apples include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no specific representations of individuals with visible or invisible disabilities that play a central role in the narrative.

Present on Screen

Provides a nuanced, authentic portrayal of Southeast Asian ethnic and migrant identities.
Offers a sophisticated critique of religious institutions and their economic realities.
Avoids the Western gaze by presenting complex migration patterns through a localized lens.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight relationships.
Does not feature depictions of individuals with visible or invisible disabilities.
The narrative is heavily driven by a single male protagonist.

Official Synopsis

Wang Shin-hong is suffering from insomnia. A fortune teller advises the Mandalay businessman, whose car and bulging wallet suggest that business is going pretty well, to spend 14 days in a monastery, living life as a monk and eating an apple a day. Such a thing is possible in Burma today. Wang Shin-hong arrives at the rural monastery, has his head shaved and dons a red robe, in which he instantly becomes an authority. During the welcome procession, the village women, their poverty clear from their clothing and the huts in the background, put more than they have in his alms bowl. During his fleeting role as their advisor, Wang Shin-hong soon learns of the villagers’ attempts to survive and make a living as legal or illegal migrants in China, Thailand or Malaysia. He also finds out how the other monks try to generate profit and additional income.

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