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Cold Ground

Name: Cold Ground
Director: Fabien Delage
Released: 2017
Duration: 86 min

Representation Score

5.4/10

Fair

2017

Director

Fabien Delage

Runtime

86 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Cold Ground succeeds by using a diverse, predominantly Black Cameroonian cast to explore complex post-colonial themes. The film integrates cultural identity into the core plot mechanics and thematic tension between tradition and modernity. The narrative also offers a strong gendered perspective through Marie, whose actions disrupt conventional expectations of female passivity. This focus on bodily autonomy and social pressure provides a nuanced look at patriarchal structures. However, the film lacks engagement with LGBTQ+ identities or disability-centric storytelling. While it challenges social hierarchies, these specific areas of representation remain unaddressed.

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Category Breakdown

Does Cold Ground have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any explicit LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities. The story focuses on interpersonal relationships within a traditional social framework without incorporating queer elements.

How does Cold Ground portray gender?

Good

Marie is a central character whose journey challenges traditional gender roles. Her struggle for bodily autonomy against a patriarchal village structure highlights her significant role in driving the story.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Cold Ground?

Excellent

The film features a predominantly Black Cameroonian cast that drives the narrative. It explores the impact of historical colonization and the interaction between indigenous customs and external cultural influences.

How does Cold Ground represent religion and culture?

Good

The story critiques rigid communal traditions by showing the conflict between village customs and individual freedom. It questions the authority of traditional institutions.

Does Cold Ground include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no prominent depictions of visible or invisible disabilities. No characters are shown navigating neurodivergence or physical impairments.

Present on Screen

Features a predominantly Black Cameroonian cast that is integral to the plot.
Provides strong women's ability to drive the story through a protagonist challenging patriarchal structures.
Explores sophisticated post-colonial dynamics and the friction of cultural influences.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities.
Provides no visible or invisible depictions of disability or neurodivergence.

Official Synopsis

1976: Two young journalists leave for the French-Swiss border to investigate a strange case of cattle mutilations and record testimonies for a TV channel. Yet, once they get there, the scientific team they were supposed to meet has gone missing. Escorted by a first-aider, a British biologist and an American forensic investigator, Melissa and David will go looking for the missing team deep into the mountains.

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