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Little Buddha

Name: Little Buddha
Director: Bernardo Bertolucci
Released: 1993
Duration: 123 min

Representation Score

3.0/10

Limited

1993

Director

Bernardo Bertolucci

Runtime

123 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Bernardo Bertolucci’s film succeeds as a cross-cultural meditation, using a dual-narrative structure to bridge Nepalese reality with the legend of Siddhartha Gautama. Its primary strength lies in the deconstruction of Western materialist values through an Eastern spiritual lens. However, the film remains conservative regarding social identity, adhering to traditional gender hierarchies and lacking any representation of LGBTQ+ identities. Ultimately, the work is a meaningful departure from Hollywood norms due to its rich South Asian landscapes and its challenge to capitalist-driven existence.

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Category Breakdown

Does Little Buddha have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on monastic discipline and traditional family structures. It does not include any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or narratives exploring sexual identity.

How does Little Buddha portray gender?

Limited

The narrative centers on male-dominated spiritual lineages and patriarchal monastic life. Female characters provide domestic context but occupy secondary roles without challenging masculine authority.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Little Buddha?

Excellent

The film excels through multicultural casting and settings. It weaves South Asian experiences with Western perspectives to disrupt Anglo-centric storytelling through a diverse cast.

How does Little Buddha represent religion and culture?

Good

The story offers a profound critique of Western materialism by prioritizing Buddhist philosophy. It positions consumerist values as obstacles to enlightenment within a non-secular worldview.

Does Little Buddha include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no prominent depictions of physical or neurodivergent disabilities used as central plot devices or character arcs.

Present on Screen

Effective multicultural casting that disrupts Anglo-centric storytelling.
A profound philosophical critique of Western materialism and consumerism.
Sophisticated use of non-linear structure to bridge historical and modern worlds.

Limited or Absent

Lack of representation for LGBTQ+ identities and non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth narratives.
Reliance on traditional patriarchal structures and male-centric spiritual leadership.
Limited roles for female characters, who remain secondary to the main narrative.

Official Synopsis

After the death of Lama Dorje, Tibetan Buddhist monks find three children — one American and two Nepalese — who may be the rebirth of their great teacher.

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