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The Lion Has Wings

Name: The Lion Has Wings
Director: Brian Desmond Hurst, Adrian Brunel, Michael Powell, Alexander Korda
Released: 1939
Duration: 76 min

Representation Score

0.4/10

Minimal

1939

Approved

Director

Brian Desmond Hurst, Adrian Brunel, Michael Powell, Alexander Korda

Runtime

76 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Lion Has Wings serves as a piece of state-aligned propaganda aimed at fostering national unity. Its primary goal is to affirm established Western institutions and traditional social hierarchies during a time of crisis. By focusing on a narrow, homogeneous depiction of British identity, the film reinforces traditional gender roles and a strictly Anglo-Saxon racial lens. It presents a binary struggle between the state and external threats, leaving no space for underrepresented identities or non-traditional social structures. Ultimately, the work prioritizes nationalistic unity over diverse representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Lion Has Wings have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any representation of LGBTQ+ identities. It focuses solely on upholding traditional social structures, leaving no room for queer identities.

How does The Lion Has Wings portray gender?

Limited

Masculinity is emphasized through combat and aviation roles, reinforcing the male protector archetype. Women are shown in supportive industrial or auxiliary roles, rather than as leaders.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Lion Has Wings?

Minimal

The film's visual landscape is predominantly white British, with little representation of racial diversity. It prioritizes a unified national image centered around Anglo-Saxon identity.

How does The Lion Has Wings represent religion and culture?

Minimal

The film celebrates Western institutions and patriotism through a singular moral perspective. It highlights military discipline and national duty as key elements of civilization.

Does The Lion Has Wings include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not address disability or neurodivergence. It focuses on able-bodied individuals who can immediately contribute to the nation’s efforts.

Present on Screen

Features influential creators such as Michael Powell and Alexander Korda, who are foundational figures in British cinema.

Limited or Absent

Does not represent LGBTQ+ identities or non-traditional relationship structures.
Reinforces traditional gender hierarchies by emphasizing masculinity in combat and leadership roles.
Maintains a homogeneous visual landscape with minimal representation of racial diversity.
Does not include any representation of disability or neurodivergence.
Promotes a singular, non-relativist view of Western institutions and social hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

This early, influential propaganda film blends documentary and studio footage to show the valiant efforts of the Royal Air Force to defend the British people against the Nazis.

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