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Absolution

Name: Absolution
Director: Keoni Waxman
Released: 2015
Duration: 91 min

Representation Score

2.3/10

Limited

2015

Director

Keoni Waxman

Runtime

91 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Absolution is a genre-driven crime drama that leans heavily into traditional masculine archetypes. The plot revolves around male-centric conflict, focusing on the power struggle between a contract killer and a mob boss. While the film does not engage with LGBTQ+ or gender-subversive themes, it offers depth through its racial casting and social realism. The inclusion of Black characters provides a departure from the homogeneous casting often seen in action cinema. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its deconstruction of institutional authority. By portraying systemic pressures and moral relativism, it offers a more nuanced view of justice compared to standard Western action films.

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Category Breakdown

Does Absolution have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film adheres to a conventional framework that assumes everyone is straight. There are no LGBTQ+ characters or narratives involving queer identities.

How does Absolution portray gender?

Limited

The story emphasizes masculine roles and physical strength. A female character exists but mainly serves as a 'damsel in distress' rather than a key driver of the plot.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Absolution?

Fair

The film includes a diverse cast that reflects urban socioeconomic realities. Significant Black characters navigate the criminal underworld and the justice system.

How does Absolution represent religion and culture?

Good

The film presents a world where moral relativism is prevalent, challenging traditional Western institutions. It favors street-level justice over corrupt formal authority.

Does Absolution include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities in the film. Disability is not a central theme or character-driven element.

Present on Screen

Diverse casting that reflects urban socioeconomic realities
Narrative exploring the lived experiences of underrepresented communities
Critique of traditional Western institutions and systemic socioeconomic pressures

Limited or Absent

Reliance on the 'damsel in distress' cliché for female characters
Lack of representation for LGBTQ+ identities and non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth gender expressions
Absence of characters with visible or invisible disabilities

Official Synopsis

When a contract killer (Steven Seagal) encounters a girl on the run from a dangerous mob boss (Vinnie Jones) with powerful political ties, running a human trafficking operation, he is torn between protecting the girl, and remaining loyal to the government agency that hired him.

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