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This Is Sanlitun

Name: This Is Sanlitun
Director: Róbert I. Douglas
Released: 2013
Duration: 95 min

Representation Score

4.5/10

Fair

2013

Not Rated

Director

Róbert I. Douglas

Runtime

95 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

This Is Sanlitun explores cultural clashes and the limitations of Western stereotypes in an Eastern context. It dismantles the 'competent male provider' archetype by focusing on a protagonist who is socially displaced and inadequate. The film shifts away from purely Western perspectives by highlighting the tension between Western attitudes and Chinese realities. This results in a more globally aware yet conflict-ridden social environment. However, the film falls short in representing diverse identities. It lacks clear LGBTQ+ identities, strong female characters, and any depiction of physical or cognitive disabilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does This Is Sanlitun have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film examines unconventional relationships between expatriate men. Although the romantic nature of the bond between Gary and Frank isn't clearly stated, it challenges typical heterosexual norms.

How does This Is Sanlitun portray gender?

Fair

The story questions traditional masculinity by showing the male lead as an unsuccessful businessman. There is a lack of prominent female characters, suggesting a focus on male dominance rather than gender equality.

How racially and ethnically diverse is This Is Sanlitun?

Fair

Placing a Westerner in Beijing, the film questions Anglo-centric views. Including an Australian character who criticizes Western identity adds layers to the racial and social dynamics.

How does This Is Sanlitun represent religion and culture?

Good

The story critiques Western individualism and capitalism through Gary's cultural ignorance. It highlights Western confidence as a weakness when dealing with the Chinese business world.

Does This Is Sanlitun include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no indication of physical or cognitive disabilities being portrayed in the film.

Present on Screen

Successfully breaks down traditional masculine archetypes and the 'provider' role.
Questions Western-centric views by emphasizing cultural displacement.
Uses cross-cultural conflicts to criticize Western capitalist and individualist models.

Limited or Absent

Does not clearly represent LGBTQ+ identities or intimate relationships.
Lacks strong female characters in the main storyline.
Does not include representations of physical or cognitive disabilities.

Official Synopsis

British sad sack Gary is a failed entrepreneur who has just arrived in Beijing's stylish Sanlitun district, allegedly to start a business. There are other reasons why he has uprooted himself — he's followed his ex-wife and young son, for one — but he soon finds out that China isn't the easiest place to succeed. Blissfully untouched by self-awareness, and only fitfully in tune with reality, Gary sallies forth to make money, armed with faith in himself and little to no knowledge of Chinese culture. He soon hooks up with Frank, a trust-fund kid from Australia who offers to mentor Gary in Eastern ways, although Frank's pedagogical method is restricted to yelling at Gary for being a Westerner and not being as "Chinese" as him.

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