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David

Name: David
Director: Peter Lilienthal
Released: 1979
Duration: 127 min

Representation Score

3.7/10

Limited

1979

Director

Peter Lilienthal

Runtime

127 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

David is a powerful historical critique that centers the vulnerability of a Jewish child navigating the rise of National Socialism. It succeeds by providing a sophisticated narrative of how dominant power structures marginalize specific ethnic identities. The film's strength lies in its unflinching examination of systemic antisemitism and the erosion of civil liberties. It avoids superficiality by leaning into the specificities of the Jewish lived experience during this era. However, the film lacks diversity in other areas. The narrative is primarily driven by male figures, and there is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or characters with disabilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does David have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on the historical realities of religious and ethnic persecution. There are no LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities present in the narrative.

How does David portray gender?

Fair

Male figures like David and the Rabbi play significant roles in driving the story. While the family experiences shared trauma, the mother is often depicted in roles of domestic stability.

How racially and ethnically diverse is David?

Excellent

The film provides a profound exploration of Jewish identity and the consequences of systemic antisemitism. It effectively deconstructs the myth of a unified national identity through the exclusion of the 'other.'

How does David represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The narrative portrays religious identity as a site of both strength and extreme vulnerability. It critiques the failure of the German social contract to protect its Jewish citizens.

Does David include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no significant evidence regarding the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities as central narrative drivers.

Present on Screen

Provides a profound and meaningful exploration of Jewish ethnic identity.
Effectively deconstructs nationalistic myths by highlighting the violent exclusion of minorities.
Offers a nuanced portrayal of religious identity facing systemic collapse.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities.
Gender ability to act is heavily concentrated in male protagonists and patriarchal figures.
Does not feature characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Although members of the Hitler Youth chant anti-Semitic paroles in front of his house during the Purim festival, Rabbi Singer is still profoundly convinced that Germany will stay a safe country for him, his family, and his fellow believers. But several years later, his son David is banned from going to school because he is a Jew. Shortly after, Rabbi Singer and his wife are deported. Now, young David also fears for his life. In constant fear of being detected, he tries to find a way to leave Germany.

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