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An African Election

Name: An African Election
Director: Jarreth J. Merz
Released: 2011
Duration: 89 min

Representation Score

3.8/10

Limited

2011

Not Rated

Director

Jarreth J. Merz

Runtime

89 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

An African Election stands as a powerful piece of observational cinema that challenges Western-centric political narratives. By presenting a rich, multi-ethnic portrayal of Ghanaian democratic processes, it replaces simplistic stereotypes with a nuanced mosaic of regional and linguistic identities. However, the film reflects traditional sociopolitical hierarchies. While it captures the reality of Ghanaian life, it lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities and shows a gender imbalance where women occupy supportive rather than central roles. Ultimately, the documentary’s strength lies in its exploration of post-colonial power structures. It provides a nuanced look at systemic corruption and institutional instability as lived realities, framing the struggle for authentic nation-building.

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Category Breakdown

Does An African Election have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary does not include any specific LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. There is no evidence of LGBTQ+ subtext in the political campaigning shown.

How does An African Election portray gender?

Fair

Male figures dominate political leadership and campaign strategy. Women play important roles in the democratic process but often occupy supportive rather than central positions of power.

How racially and ethnically diverse is An African Election?

Excellent

The film showcases a diverse range of ethnic identities and languages. It avoids broad stereotypes by highlighting the ability to act of Ghanaian citizens rather than focusing on Western perspectives.

How does An African Election represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The narrative delves into post-colonial themes and the challenges of nation-building. It emphasizes religious influences and the struggles of grassroots candidates against established powers.

Does An African Election include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not significantly focus on characters with disabilities. Its scope centers on political and socioeconomic issues.

Present on Screen

Offers a sophisticated, multi-ethnic portrayal of Ghanaian identity.
Challenges Western-centric political clichés through authentic local ability to act.
Explores post-colonial themes and the complexities of nation-building.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ characters or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities.
Reflects gendered hierarchies where women hold primarily supportive roles.
Does not feature significant focus on characters with disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Filmmaker Jarreth Merz directs this eye-opening documentary about the 2008 presidential elections in Ghana, chronicling the start-to-finish drama of campaigning in a nation that's long served as a measure of the continent's political stability.

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