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Possession

Name: Possession
Director: Henrik Martin Dahlsbakken
Released: 2022
Duration: 104 min

Representation Score

6.0/10

Good

2022

Director

Henrik Martin Dahlsbakken

Runtime

104 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Possession (2022) uses the horror genre to critique colonial narratives and the clash between institutional authority and indigenous sanctity. The film's primary strength lies in its thematic depth, particularly in how it addresses the tension between industrial capitalism and indigenous sovereignty. While the film excels in representing the Sami experience, it lacks representation of LGBTQ+ and disability issues. The narrative focus is heavily centered on historical and cultural conflicts rather than individual identity politics. Ultimately, the film succeeds as a critique of expansionist values, using a supernatural haunting as a metaphor for the persistence of indigenous history against colonial erasure.

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Category Breakdown

Does Possession have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not explicitly show LGBTQ+ character arcs or identities outside of heterosexual norms. The story focuses on the conflict between the clergy and the desecration of indigenous burial grounds.

How does Possession portray gender?

Fair

The story centers around a priest, a role traditionally dominated by men. While the film does not confirm women's ability to drive the story, the tension between settlers and the Sami hints at potential explorations of gendered power dynamics.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Possession?

Excellent

The film highlights the Sami people by centering their experience. It critiques colonial encroachment by depicting the desecration of indigenous burial grounds as a cause of supernatural unrest.

How does Possession represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film portrays Western institutions like organized religion and capitalism as disruptive forces. These structures are shown to act against a sacred, pre-existing indigenous order.

Does Possession include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no indication of the depiction of physical or neurodivergent disabilities within the narrative.

Present on Screen

Centers the Sami people, providing significant representation to an underrepresented group.
Offers a sophisticated critique of colonial encroachment and industrial capitalism.
Uses horror elements to explore the tension between Western institutions and indigenous sanctity.

Limited or Absent

Lacks visible representation of LGBTQ+ identities or character arcs.
No evidence of characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.
Focus on institutional conflict leaves women's ability to drive the story and gendered power dynamics unconfirmed.

Official Synopsis

A priest has been tasked with deciding the location of a new church for the local mining company, which reveals itself to be on top of an old Sami burial ground. After removing the remains, the dead come alive and haunt the settlers.

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