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The Wolves

Name: The Wolves
Director: Samuel Kishi
Released: 2020
Duration: 95 min

Representation Score

4.0/10

Limited

2020

TV-14

Director

Samuel Kishi

Runtime

95 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Wolves provides a poignant look at the immigrant experience, focusing on the struggles and resilience of an African immigrant family. The film's commitment to racial and ethnic authenticity is evident through its nuanced portrayal of systemic challenges and socioeconomic survival in the United States. While the film lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and disability, it effectively deconstructs Western prosperity clichés. The maternal figure stands out as an active provider, challenging traditional domestic hierarchies. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its multi-layered approach to displacement and the struggle for stability within a capitalist framework.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Wolves have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any explicit LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. The story focuses solely on the nuclear family and the challenges of the immigration process.

How does The Wolves portray gender?

Fair

The mother plays a central role as the primary provider and anchor of the household. She demonstrates a significant role in driving the story by navigating the labor market to support her children.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Wolves?

Excellent

The film centers on the experiences of African immigrants and avoids a white-centric perspective. It emphasizes the ability to act and depth of characters of color.

How does The Wolves represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative highlights the tension between the American Dream and the reality of subsistence living. It critiques Western socioeconomic structures affecting displaced populations.

Does The Wolves include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities playing central roles or possessing specific ability to act within the plot.

Present on Screen

Authentic portrayal of the African immigrant experience and diverse representation.
Strong depiction of maternal ability to act and the woman's role as a provider.
Effective critique of the gap between the American Dream and reality.

Limited or Absent

Lack of representation for LGBTQ+ identities and non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth narratives.
Absence of characters with visible or invisible disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Max and Leo are 8 and 5 years old and have just immigrated to the US with their mother. Their days pass inside a tiny apartment, while they wait for their mother to come back, as they hold on to the hope of traveling to Disney.

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