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The 23

Name: The 23
Director: Mehdi Jafari
Released: 2019
Duration: 110 min

Representation Score

2.9/10

Limited

2019

Director

Mehdi Jafari

Runtime

110 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The 23 (2019) is a localized war drama that prioritizes a specific nationalistic narrative. It follows traditional dramatic structures without disrupting social or gender hierarchies. While the film provides a meaningful non-Western perspective, it remains largely homogeneous. The focus on military conflict limits the scope for diverse character archetypes. Ultimately, the film functions as a genre-specific piece centered on Iranian identity and wartime duty, offering little in the way of multi-layered or progressive social representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does The 23 have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not feature explicit LGBTQ+ characters or stories. Its wartime setting emphasizes Iranian soldiers without addressing assumptions about straight relationships.

How does The 23 portray gender?

Limited

The story centers on masculine-coded warriors. There is no evidence of women playing key roles or challenging gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The 23?

Fair

The film offers a non-Western perspective through its Iranian identity. However, it lacks diverse ethnic representation or multi-layered casting.

How does The 23 represent religion and culture?

Limited

The narrative aligns with traditional themes of patriotism and national struggle. It does not appear to challenge Western institutions or promote secularism.

Does The 23 include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no information regarding the inclusion of characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Present on Screen

Provides a meaningful non-Western perspective within the global cinematic landscape.
Offers a culturally specific narrative centered on Iranian identity.

Limited or Absent

Lacks visible LGBTQ+ representation or narratives that critique the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.
Relies on traditional masculine-coded roles without subverting gender hierarchies.
Shows no evidence of multi-layered casting or diverse ethnic identities.
Does not include characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

The story of 23 young Iranian warriors who were captivated by Iraqi army.

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