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D(e)ad

Name: D(e)ad
Director: Claudia Lonow
Released: 2025
Duration: 82 min

Representation Score

8.3/10

Excellent

2025

Director

Claudia Lonow

Runtime

82 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

D(e)ad functions as a character-driven dramedy that subverts traditional domestic hierarchies. By centering on a daughter's role in resolving a family crisis, the film disrupts standard patriarchal dynamics. The production utilizes a diverse cast and introduces specific religious elements, such as a rabbi, to broaden the narrative scope. However, the film's depth regarding specific multi-layered identities and disability remains unconfirmed. The focus on alcoholism provides a glimpse into mental health themes, but lacks explicit detail on its execution.

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Category Breakdown

Does D(e)ad have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

While there is no explicit mention of LGBTQ+ identities, the casting of Vic Michaelis and Zac Oyama hints at the possibility of nuanced, inclusive representation within the ensemble.

How does D(e)ad portray gender?

Good

Tillie serves as the emotional anchor of the narrative, navigating a fractured relationship with her father. This shifts power from the patriarchal figure to the female protagonist.

How racially and ethnically diverse is D(e)ad?

Fair

The ensemble includes a multi-ethnic cast, featuring actors like Zac Oyama and Nick Marini. The presence of a rabbi suggests a cultural perspective that extends beyond an Anglo-Saxon viewpoint.

How does D(e)ad represent religion and culture?

Good

By incorporating Jewish cultural elements and exploring themes of estrangement, the film challenges traditional Western nuclear family ideals. It uses a supernatural lens to question established spiritual norms.

Does D(e)ad include disability representation?

Fair

There is no clear evidence of physical or neurodivergent representation. While alcoholism is a central theme, it is unclear if this is a nuanced study of substance use disorder.

Present on Screen

Shifts power from the patriarchal figure to the female protagonist, challenging traditional authority.
Features a multi-ethnic ensemble cast that suggests a diverse range of perspectives.
Incorporates specific religious and cultural frameworks to expand the narrative scope.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit confirmation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight relationships.
Provides limited information regarding the nuanced portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.
The depth of cultural representation remains unverified beyond the mention of a rabbi.

Official Synopsis

Tillie, a floundering young woman and her charismatic, alcoholic father, struggle to resolve their fractured relationship in the weirdest possible way: after he dies, his ghost appears in mirrors to haunt everyone in the family but Tillie. The family must do everything they can to make Tillie see her father or else they will be plagued by this ghost forever.

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