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(A)Torsion

Name: (A)Torsion
Director: Stefan Arsenijević
Released: 2003
Duration: 13 min

Representation Score

3.7/10

Limited

2003

Director

Stefan Arsenijević

Runtime

13 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

*(A)Torsion* offers a nuanced look at resilience within a fractured society. It avoids typical war movie clichés by focusing on community rather than military hierarchy. The film’s focus on a choir trying to survive a siege provides a unique perspective on human connection during systemic upheaval. While the film doesn’t explicitly represent individual identities, it disrupts conventional war movie expectations by highlighting the strength found in collective action. Its diversity lies in its cultural and geopolitical context rather than specific character representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does (A)Torsion have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include explicit LGBTQ+ characters or stories about non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities. Instead, it focuses on a group of people dealing with a geopolitical crisis together.

How does (A)Torsion portray gender?

Fair

The story centers around a singing group that works as a team, emphasizing unity and support over traditional masculine roles in combat.

How racially and ethnically diverse is (A)Torsion?

Good

Set in war-torn Sarajevo, the film highlights non-Anglo-Saxon identities and examines how ethnic and geopolitical conflicts affect local communities.

How does (A)Torsion represent religion and culture?

Good

The film uses music to reclaim control and ability to act in the face of systemic breakdown. It emphasizes organic survival and positive events over destructive political ideas.

Does (A)Torsion include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no information about the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities in this film.

Present on Screen

Avoids typical war movie clichés by focusing on community care instead of combat.
Provides a deep critique of institutional stability through the lens of regional conflict.
Uses music as a powerful tool for reclaiming ability to act amid systemic violence.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth characters.
Does not provide any information about the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

(A) Torsion is a 2002 Bosnian short film directed by Stefan Arsenijevic. A singing group, trying to escape war-torn Sarajevo, has to wait for a tunnel to clear. While they wait, a cow has difficulty giving birth because of the "torsion" affecting its calf (i.e., it's in a twisted position inside). Fortunately, one of the choir members has some veterinary training, and with help from the chorus to drown out the sounds of war, the cow gives birth. The film was nominated for an Oscar for Best Live Action Short Film.

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