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Silam

Name: Silam
Director: Jose Poernomo
Released: 2018
Duration: 80 min

Representation Score

4.8/10

Fair

2018

Director

Jose Poernomo

Runtime

80 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Silam functions primarily as a regional horror piece that succeeds in providing non-Western cultural immersion. By centering an Indonesian cast and setting, it effectively disrupts the dominance of Western-centric storytelling. However, the film lacks multi-layered complexity. The narrative relies on standard genre clichés rather than the intentional deconstruction of social hierarchies or progressive messaging. While the film offers a refreshing departure from homogeneous Western norms, it remains a traditional exploration of personal struggle within a specific cultural context.

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Category Breakdown

Does Silam have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film focuses on traditional supernatural horror elements. There is no visible evidence of non-binary gender identities or narratives that question the assumption that everyone is straight.

How does Silam portray gender?

Fair

The plot centers on Baskara navigating domestic and academic mistreatment. Gender dynamics follow standard genre conventions without significant challenges to traditional hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Silam?

Good

As an Indonesian production, the film provides a non-Western-centric perspective. The diverse local cast breaks the dominance of Anglo-Saxon media.

How does Silam represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative explores systemic mistreatment within domestic and educational institutions. It touches on the failings of traditional social structures through the protagonist's struggle.

Does Silam include disability representation?

Minimal

The protagonist experiences psychological or social distress. However, there is no specific evidence of neurodivergence or physical disabilities as central character arcs.

Present on Screen

Provides strong regional representation through an Indonesian cast and setting.
Disrupts Western-centric media hegemony by offering a non-Western perspective.
Explores themes of systemic mistreatment within domestic and educational environments.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-binary narratives.
Does not actively subvert traditional gender hierarchies or masculinity clichés.
Provides no specific focus on neurodivergence or physical disability representation.

Official Synopsis

Grappling with mistreatment at school and at home, Baskara moves into his uncle's home, where he encounters spirits and uncovers unsettling secrets.

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