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The Medal

Name: The Medal
Director: Martin Hollý
Released: 1980
Duration: 84 min

Representation Score

2.1/10

Limited

1980

Director

Martin Hollý

Runtime

84 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Medal is a psychological drama that highlights the tension between personal identity and rigid state institutions. It deconstructs the heroic soldier cliché, focusing on the volatility of imperial hierarchies during World War I. While the film lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and disabilities, it excels in its thematic subversion of traditional patriotism. Its strength lies in its narrative structure, providing a critical view of authority and the fragility of institutional loyalty.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Medal have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any characters with non-binary gender identities or same-sex relationships, reflecting the social norms of a 20th-century military context.

How does The Medal portray gender?

Limited

The story focuses on a male protagonist in a highly masculine environment. It delves into male psychological vulnerabilities but does not provide significant roles for female characters.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Medal?

Fair

Set in the diverse Habsburg Empire, the film has potential for showcasing racial diversity. However, the narrative emphasizes imperial loyalty over exploring the intersections of ethnicity.

How does The Medal represent religion and culture?

Good

The film offers a sophisticated critique of Western institutions. It challenges the 'glorious empire' cliché by showing the monarchy as a source of systemic instability.

Does The Medal include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities integrated into the narrative.

Present on Screen

Challenges the traditional 'heroic soldier' cliché by examining duty and responsibility.
Offers a nuanced critique of imperial structures and state authority.
Explores deep psychological complexities within a rigid systemic framework.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth narratives.
Provides minimal roles for female characters.
Does not explore ethnic the way different parts of someone's identity overlap despite the multi-ethnic setting.

Official Synopsis

The trenches of World War I provide for a captivating backdrop to the drama of Corporal Hoferik. In his devotion to the Habsburg Monarchy, he fanatically carries out his military orders, but he ultimately suffers the Empire's disfavor.

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