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Rootwood

Rootwood

Representation Score

3.1/10

Limited

2019

Not Rated

Director

Marcel Walz

Runtime

83 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Rootwood operates as a standard mystery-thriller that emphasizes genre clichés and plot-driven suspense. The narrative follows a conventional path centered on paranormal investigation and the pursuit of professional success. The film lacks significant evidence of challenging social hierarchies or exploring multi-layered identities. It adheres to traditional Western horror frameworks rather than venturing into more progressive themes. Overall, the production reflects a moderate level of inclusion typical of independent genre cinema, focusing more on folklore and urban legends than on progressive narrative redirection.

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Category Breakdown

Does Rootwood have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film centers on a podcasting duo and a film producer pursuing fame. There is no explicit mention of LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender narratives within the story.

How does Rootwood portray gender?

Fair

The protagonists drive the plot through professional ambition. However, the film does not challenge traditional gender roles or social norms through its character archetypes.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Rootwood?

Limited

The setting and premise align with traditional Western horror frameworks. There is no indication of a diverse cast or efforts to disrupt historical norms.

How does Rootwood represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story uses Western folklore clichés such as urban legends and curses. Character motivations focus on capitalist goals like fame rather than anti-institutional or non-Western perspectives.

Does Rootwood include disability representation?

Minimal

The film provides no information regarding the inclusion of characters with visible or invisible disabilities.

Present on Screen

  • The film uses established horror-mystery clichés like urban legends and curses to create suspense.
  • The narrative features a clear, professional motivation for the protagonists centered on career ambition.

Limited or Absent

  • The film lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender narratives.
  • There is a lack of racial and ethnic diversity within the established Western horror framework.
  • The story does not actively subvert traditional gender roles or social norms.

Official Synopsis

Rootwood follows two students who host ‘The Spooky Hour’, a podcast about paranormal phenomena and urban legends. When they are hired by a Hollywood film producer to shoot a horror documentary about the curse of The Wooden Devil, they smell their chance to become famous. Together, with their friend, they enter Rootwood Forest and investigate the area to find out the truth about The Wooden Devil and his victims.

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