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Shabu

Name: Shabu
Director: Shamira Raphaëla
Released: 2022
Duration: 75 min

Representation Score

8.2/10

Excellent

2022

Director

Shamira Raphaëla

Runtime

75 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Shabu offers a grounded look at identity and responsibility within a specific urban setting. By using the connection between Rotterdam and Suriname, the film delves into real-life social dynamics. The film stands out by avoiding the typical triumphant coming-of-age story. Instead, it emphasizes the complexities of family and cultural reconciliation. While it excels in ethnic and cultural depth, it remains neutral on LGBTQ+ and disability representation due to a lack of direct narrative evidence.

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Category Breakdown

Does Shabu have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The story revolves around a coming-of-age journey focused on family reconciliation. There is no direct mention of LGBTQ+ identities or themes.

How does Shabu portray gender?

Fair

The plot centers on a young male character dealing with family conflicts. The portrayal of a creative and good-natured boy diverges from typical hyper-masculine stereotypes.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Shabu?

Good

The film showcases diverse ethnic representation by focusing on a family with roots in Suriname living in Rotterdam. This shifts the usual Eurocentric focus.

How does Shabu represent religion and culture?

Good

The movie explores interpersonal issues and transnational family connections. The link to Suriname adds a layer of post-colonial context.

Does Shabu include disability representation?

Fair

There is no indication of characters with visible or invisible disabilities. The score reflects a lack of information rather than negative portrayals.

Present on Screen

Highlights diverse ethnic representation through the protagonist's cultural background and ties to Suriname.
Avoids hyper-masculine stereotypes by depicting a creative and emotionally intelligent young male character.
Presents realistic, non-idealized family dynamics and the intricacies of the diaspora experience.

Limited or Absent

Does not include explicit representation or themes related to LGBTQ+ identities.
Does not feature characters dealing with visible or invisible disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Fourteen-year-old Shabu is a good-natured, creative, and street-smart boy from the south of Rotterdam. When he wrecks his grandmother’s car on a joyride, his whole family is angry with him. He has a summer to make amends before his grandmother returns from a vacation in Suriname.

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