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Feathers

Name: Feathers
Director: A.V. Rockwell
Released: 2018
Duration: 20 min

Representation Score

4.2/10

Fair

2018

PG-13

Director

A.V. Rockwell

Runtime

20 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Feathers is a naturalistic character study that thrives on its cultural specificity. By setting the story in a rural Puerto Rican context with a local cast, the film sidesteps Western-centric clichés and offers a sophisticated portrayal of identity. The film excels in exploring gender through the lens of maternal responsibilities and emotional labor. It goes beyond passive clichés to delve into the internal struggles and strengths of its female characters. However, the narrative lacks diversity in terms of LGBTQ+ representation and disability. The focus remains solely on traditional family dynamics and biological transitions, neglecting other identity-driven perspectives.

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Category Breakdown

Does Feathers have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on traditional heterosexual relationships and does not include non-cisgender identities or critiques of the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does Feathers portray gender?

Good

The story centers on the experiences of women and the intricacies of maternal roles. It highlights the internal lives and active roles of female characters dealing with changes in their personal lives.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Feathers?

Excellent

The film features an authentic Puerto Rican cast set in a rural, working-class environment. This localized approach avoids the homogenized perspective common in mainstream cinema.

How does Feathers represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative provides a nuanced view of traditional institutions through the lens of familial duties. It subtly critiques the socioeconomic barriers faced by underrepresented communities.

Does Feathers include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no significant portrayals of visible or invisible disabilities that influence the storyline.

Present on Screen

Authentic Caribbean representation through a predominantly Puerto Rican cast.
In-depth exploration of gender by focusing on maternal roles and female empowerment.
Avoids mainstream cinematic homogenization by using a localized, rural setting.

Limited or Absent

Lack of LGBTQ+ representation or non-cisgender identities.
Absence of characters dealing with visible or invisible disabilities.
Limited exploration of identities outside the traditional family framework.

Official Synopsis

Elizier, an emotionally-dejected new enrollee at The Edward R. Mill School for Boys, must overcome memories of a tragic past and the present hazing by his peers in order to tackle larger issues dominating his young life.

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