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Tender

Name: Tender
Director: Isabel Pagliai
Released: 2020
Duration: 43 min

Representation Score

3.5/10

Limited

2020

Director

Isabel Pagliai

Runtime

43 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Tender is a nuanced character study that emphasizes emotional depth over broad demographic representation. It successfully deconstructs traditional adolescent clichés by showcasing a vulnerable, hesitant masculinity and a wise, observant female perspective. Despite its thematic sophistication, the film lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities, diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, and characters with disabilities. This limits its overall inclusivity score. Overall, the film excels in challenging conventional narrative structures through its atmospheric and communal approach to youth, even if it falls short in explicit inclusivity.

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Category Breakdown

Does Tender have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film focuses on the secret emotional connection between Hugo and Chaïnes, suggesting a departure from strict social norms. However, it avoids explicitly labeling their relationship as LGBTQ+.

How does Tender portray gender?

Fair

The narrative presents Hugo's emotional vulnerability and instability, which contrasts with traditional masculine stereotypes. Mia, a wise young woman, offers a critical perspective that challenges typical gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Tender?

Minimal

There is no information available regarding the racial or ethnic composition of the cast or the setting.

How does Tender represent religion and culture?

Good

The film challenges traditional Western storytelling by emphasizing subjective time and communal experiences. It portrays children as a collective choir, moving away from conventional family structures.

Does Tender include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any characters with visible or invisible disabilities.

Present on Screen

Highlights Hugo's emotional vulnerability rather than stoic masculinity.
Uses a non-linear, subjective approach to time to challenge traditional storytelling.
Focuses on a communal, atmospheric experience involving a 'choir' of children.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities.
Needs more information on racial and ethnic diversity among the cast.
Does not feature characters with visible or invisible disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Late summer, a small lake, teenage rascals. Mia, 11 and too wise for her age, asks Hugo, 15 and blasé, to tell her about Chaïnes – a girl he spent evenings with at the lake, trying to seduce her. He felt the fear of declaring his love and the torment provoked by the exuberant but secretive Chaïnes, who never shows her emotions. Mia and her siblings surround them, like a choir. A slow, dark, documentary in which time doesn't seem to exist.

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