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Submission

Name: Submission
Director: J.M. Berrios
Released: 2019
Duration: 94 min

Representation Score

2.9/10

Limited

2019

Director

J.M. Berrios

Runtime

94 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

This character-driven drama emphasizes the psychological aftermath of military trauma over broader identity explorations. The film's structure focuses on the recovery of two Marines, limiting its social commentary. The narrative heavily relies on traditional masculine archetypes, using combat and mixed martial arts settings to explore vulnerability. While this provides a backdrop for examining male fragility, it does not actively challenge gender hierarchies or introduce diverse social perspectives. Ultimately, the film serves as a focused study of trauma and resilience. It lacks the breadth of representation needed to address broader multi-layered or cultural themes, remaining a specialized look at veteran reintegration.

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Category Breakdown

Does Submission have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or explore non-cisgender identities. Its focus is entirely on the psychological trauma experienced by military personnel.

How does Submission portray gender?

Limited

The story centers around male protagonists in highly masculine environments such as the military and mixed martial arts. While it delves into male vulnerability, it offers little in terms of female empowerment.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Submission?

Fair

The conflict with ISIS introduces various geopolitical contexts. However, the narrative primarily centers on the experiences of military personnel.

How does Submission represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film examines institutional trauma and the challenges of reintegration into civilian life. It follows a conventional dramatic arc without emphasizing specific secular or anti-capitalist themes.

Does Submission include disability representation?

Fair

The narrative addresses the invisible disability of PTSD, providing a serious platform for depicting psychological injuries following interrogations.

Present on Screen

The film seriously depicts the psychological impact of PTSD.
It challenges the 'invincible soldier' stereotype by exploring male vulnerability and fragility.
The narrative offers a focused look at the struggle of reintegrating into civilian life.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks significant female empowerment or diverse gender representation.
There is a lack of LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender narratives.
The story focuses on specific military experiences rather than broader ethnic the way different parts of someone's identity overlap.

Official Synopsis

After two marines make it home following an ISIS interrogation, one struggles to survive while the other fights his way back into the mixed martial arts world that he left behind years ago.

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