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Retreat from Beirut

Name: Retreat from Beirut
Director: Sherry Jones, Foster Wiley
Released: 1985
Duration: 58 min

Representation Score

2.7/10

Limited

1985

TV-MA

Director

Sherry Jones, Foster Wiley

Runtime

58 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Retreat from Beirut serves as a critique of Western military dominance rather than a study of individual identity. It challenges traditional patriotic narratives by questioning the morality of foreign intervention and the consequences of political conflict. However, the film's focus on high-level command and geopolitical strategy leads to a lack of representation for LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse perspectives. The narrative structure emphasizes masculine-dominated spheres of power. While the subject matter requires engagement with Middle Eastern contexts, the documentary primarily examines the American political experience. This creates a tension between its cultural critique and its potential to highlight non-Western perspectives.

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Category Breakdown

Does Retreat from Beirut have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. Its focus remains on military geopolitics and the 1984 Marine withdrawal.

How does Retreat from Beirut portray gender?

Limited

The film focuses on military and political decision-making, which are typically dominated by masculine hierarchies. It emphasizes high-level command and political conflicts over gendered perspectives.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Retreat from Beirut?

Fair

The film addresses Middle Eastern identities through its focus on the Lebanese Civil War. However, it is unclear if local populations play a significant role or merely serve as a backdrop.

How does Retreat from Beirut represent religion and culture?

Good

The film questions the necessity of American intervention by disrupting Western triumphalism. It critiques traditional geopolitical power structures and institutional effectiveness.

Does Retreat from Beirut include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no evidence of the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities. The film's focus remains on political and military decision-making.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional Western triumphalism and patriotic narratives.
Addresses the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitical contexts.
Offers a critical examination of Western institutional effectiveness.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities and narratives.
Focuses on masculine-dominated hierarchies of military and political command.
Unclear if local populations have a significant role beyond the American perspective.

Official Synopsis

They went to keep the peace. But 241 died-caught in a military and political cross fire. One year after the pullout of American Marines from Lebanon, Frontline correspondent William Greider examines the decision and asks: Where should Americans die, and what should they die for?

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