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The Goblin

Name: The Goblin
Director: Kim Hee-seong
Released: 2022
Duration: 90 min

Representation Score

3.2/10

Limited

2022

Director

Kim Hee-seong

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film functions as a conventional action-thriller that emphasizes established genre clichés over social subversion. The narrative is driven by a singular male protagonist seeking vengeance, reinforcing traditional masculine archetypes of protection and retribution. Representation is limited by a focus on a patriarchal father-daughter dynamic. While the film provides a culturally specific South Korean setting, it lacks multi-layered character development or diverse social perspectives. Overall, the film adheres to standard storytelling patterns of the revenge genre, offering little disruption to conventional social hierarchies or identity-based representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Goblin have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not include any references to LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex relationships. The story focuses solely on traditional heterosexual relationships.

How does The Goblin portray gender?

Fair

The story revolves around male-driven conflict and masculine stereotypes such as the avenger and betrayer. Female characters are used primarily as plot devices rather than active agents.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Goblin?

Fair

Set in South Korea, the film portrays a homogeneous social environment centered on local interpersonal conflicts.

How does The Goblin represent religion and culture?

Limited

The plot follows a traditional hero's journey emphasizing personal retribution and familial loyalty. It adheres to a standard moral framework without challenging traditional values.

Does The Goblin include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no depiction of physical or neurodivergent disabilities among the characters.

Present on Screen

The film provides a culturally specific South Korean setting and context.
The narrative offers a clear, focused hero's journey centered on familial loyalty.

Limited or Absent

The film relies heavily on passive female roles and traditional masculine archetypes.
There is a lack of representation for LGBTQ+ identities and diverse social backgrounds.
The story follows predictable genre conventions rather than exploring perspectives that reflect multiple aspects of identity.

Official Synopsis

Doo-hyun, who goes by the name the "Goblin", goes to prison for taking the fall for Young-min who killed their boss. Released after 10 years, Doo-hyun had been living a normal life, but Young-min goes so far as to kidnap Doo-hyun's daughter to keep his mouth shut. Enraged, Doo-hyun seeks revenge and announces the return of the real "Goblin".

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