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The Coming War on China

Name: The Coming War on China
Director: John Pilger
Released: 2016
Duration: 110 min

Representation Score

7.4/10

Good

2016

TV-PG

Director

John Pilger

Runtime

110 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

John Pilger’s documentary is a powerful piece of media that counters Anglo-centric narratives. It succeeds by shifting the focus from Western superpowers to the diverse ethnic groups of the Pacific. While the film lacks focus on LGBTQ+ identities and non-binary gender stories, it provides significant value through its critique of imperialist frameworks. It prioritizes post-colonial perspectives over traditional Western stability. Ultimately, the work is defined by its ability to challenge institutional hierarchies by highlighting the voices of underrepresented populations in the Asia-Pacific region.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Coming War on China have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The documentary does not focus on LGBTQ+ identities or non-binary gender stories. Its emphasis on geopolitics and military strategy means these identities are not prominently featured.

How does The Coming War on China portray gender?

Fair

The story focuses on traditionally masculine roles such as military commanders and state actors. It does not actively challenge gender hierarchies or highlight female leadership.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Coming War on China?

Excellent

The film highlights the perspectives of Pacific Island leaders, activists, and indigenous residents, giving them a significant role in driving the story and shifting focus away from Western powers.

How does The Coming War on China represent religion and culture?

Excellent

Using a post-colonial perspective, the film criticizes Western institutions and military expansion. It portrays Western structures as sources of regional instability rather than protectors of order.

Does The Coming War on China include disability representation?

Fair

The documentary does not focus on visible or invisible disabilities. The subjects are primarily involved in political activism rather than narratives involving disability.

Present on Screen

Disrupts Anglo-centric media narratives by centering Pacific Island leaders and indigenous residents.
Gives a significant role in driving the story to underrepresented populations in the Asia-Pacific region.
Uses a strong post-colonial lens to critique Western military and political structures.
Challenges traditional institutional clichés by prioritizing local autonomy and systemic critique.

Limited or Absent

Lacks visibility for LGBTQ+ identities and non-binary gender narratives.
Focuses on traditionally masculine-coded roles like military commanders and state actors.
Does not actively challenge gender hierarchies or highlight female leadership.
Provides no significant focus on visible or invisible disabilities.

Official Synopsis

John Pilger reveals what the news doesn't - that the United States and the world's second economic power, China (both nuclear armed) are on the road to war. Pilger's film is a warning and an inspiring story of resistance.

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