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Hippopotamus

Name: Hippopotamus
Director: Edward A Palmer
Released: 2018
Duration: 77 min

Representation Score

3.1/10

Limited

2018

Director

Edward A Palmer

Runtime

77 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Hippopotamus adheres closely to traditional psychological thriller conventions, focusing primarily on a tense power struggle between two characters. The narrative emphasizes personal conflict rather than broader social commentary. The film relies on well-established clichés, such as the physically vulnerable female protagonist and the dark romantic theme of freedom. It fails to explore multi-layered identities or systemic social structures. Overall, the work lacks the breadth needed to address diverse cultural, racial, or LGBTQ+ perspectives, resulting in a story that feels narrowly focused and conventional.

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Category Breakdown

Does Hippopotamus have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The story revolves around a traditional heterosexual relationship between Ruby and Tom, with no indication of non-traditional gender identities or critiques of conventional romance.

How does Hippopotamus portray gender?

Limited

Ruby is portrayed in a vulnerable position, described as a 'damsel in distress' with broken legs, while the male character controls her environment.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Hippopotamus?

Minimal

There are no specific details about the racial or ethnic backgrounds of the characters, making it impossible to assess ethnic diversity.

How does Hippopotamus represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film focuses on a localized psychological thriller without addressing broader cultural, religious, or moral issues related to Western institutions.

Does Hippopotamus include disability representation?

Fair

The protagonist's broken legs represent a significant physical disability, but it is unclear whether this condition provides her with real control or simply serves as a tool for creating tension.

Present on Screen

The protagonist actively works towards escaping her captivity.

Limited or Absent

The film relies on conventional gendered clichés of captivity and forced intimacy.
The narrative lacks representation of diverse racial, ethnic, or LGBTQ+ identities.
The protagonist's physical disability may serve primarily as a plot device for tension.

Official Synopsis

Ruby wakes from a bad dream to find herself in a real life nightmare. She's trapped in a basement, her legs are broken and she can't remember who she is or how she got there. Her kidnapper, Tom, tells her she will remain captive until she falls in love with him. Ruby is focused on trying to escape until Tom starts helping her to remember her past and she begins to question everything.

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