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Khartoum

Name: Khartoum
Director: Eliot Elisofon, Basil Dearden
Released: 1966
Duration: 134 min

Representation Score

1.7/10

Minimal

1966

Approved

Director

Eliot Elisofon, Basil Dearden

Runtime

134 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Khartoum is a traditional historical epic that centers on the 'Great Man' theory of history. The film emphasizes individual heroism, particularly through General Gordon, without delving into systemic issues or diverse identities. The production adheres to mid-century cinematic structures, prioritizing the preservation of established hierarchies. Despite featuring many Sudanese characters, the perspective remains rooted in the Anglo-Egyptian colonial administration. Ultimately, the film does not challenge the conventional Western-centric viewpoint of the era, presenting a large-scale depiction of a non-Western movement without offering a broader critique.

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Category Breakdown

Does Khartoum have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film follows a strict focus on straight relationships and does not include any queer subtext or non-traditional gender identities.

How does Khartoum portray gender?

Limited

Male characters in military and religious leadership roles drive the plot. Female characters are confined to supporting or domestic roles without much independence.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Khartoum?

Fair

The story centers on the British colonial experience during the siege. While the Mahdist movement is shown as a strong force, Sudanese characters are portrayed through a colonial perspective.

How does Khartoum represent religion and culture?

Minimal

The narrative upholds Western colonial order by portraying the Mahdist uprising as a disruptive force. It highlights patriotism and the maintenance of Western institutions.

Does Khartoum include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no visible or invisible disabilities impacting the narrative arc in the film.

Present on Screen

The film presents the Mahdist movement as a formidable and organized force, avoiding obvious caricatures.

Limited or Absent

The narrative heavily relies on traditional gender hierarchies, limiting women to secondary roles.
The perspective is limited to the Anglo-Egyptian colonial administration, sidelining independent Sudanese ability to act.
The film lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-traditional gender characters.
The story offers little critique of the colonial structures or moral complexities of the time.

Official Synopsis

English General Charles George Gordon is appointed military governor of Anglo-Egyptian Sudan by the Prime Minister. Ordered to evacuate Egyptians from the Sudan, Gordon stays on to protect the people of Khartoum, who are under threat of being conquered by a Muslim army.

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