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Under the Tree

Name: Under the Tree
Director: Hafsteinn Gunnar Sigurðsson
Released: 2017
Duration: 89 min

Representation Score

2.9/10

Limited

2017

Not Rated

Director

Hafsteinn Gunnar Sigurðsson

Runtime

89 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Under the Tree is a dark comedy that prioritizes social and psychological deconstruction over demographic diversity. While it lacks representation for LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, or ethnic minorities, it delves deeply into the critique of Western social constructs. The film's strength lies in its portrayal of both men and women as active participants in escalating chaos, breaking down traditional gender hierarchies. It also provides a sophisticated critique of Western social institutions and the myth of suburban stability. Ultimately, the film's impact comes from its exploration of moral relativism and the breakdown of communal norms, even as it presents a homogeneous portrait of Icelandic suburban life.

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Category Breakdown

Does Under the Tree have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or stories. It focuses on traditional heterosexual relationships without exploring other sexual orientations or gender identities.

How does Under the Tree portray gender?

Fair

Both men and women are shown as equally capable of irrational behavior and aggression. The film challenges traditional gender roles by avoiding the depiction of women solely in nurturing or submissive roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Under the Tree?

Minimal

The film is set in a remote Icelandic village with a predominantly white cast. It does not incorporate diverse ethnic backgrounds or multicultural perspectives.

How does Under the Tree represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film critically examines Western social institutions and the concept of community. It questions the stability of suburban life through a lens of moral relativism.

Does Under the Tree include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not prominently depict physical or neurodivergent disabilities. These conditions do not play a central role in the narrative.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gender hierarchies by depicting both men and women as equally volatile and aggressive.
Offers a sophisticated critique of Western social institutions and the myth of suburban stability.
Explores complex themes of moral relativism and the breakdown of communal norms.

Limited or Absent

Does not include any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight-centered narratives.
Features a highly homogeneous, predominantly white cast with minimal ethnic diversity.
Does not engage with physical or neurodivergent disability representation.

Official Synopsis

When Baldvin and Inga's next door neighbours complain that a tree in their backyard casts a shadow over their sundeck, what starts off as a typical spat between neighbours in the suburbs unexpectedly and violently spirals out of control.

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