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Aftersun

Name: Aftersun
Director: Charlotte Wells
Released: 2022
Duration: 101 min

Representation Score

5.2/10

Fair

2022

Director

Charlotte Wells

Runtime

101 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Aftersun stands out for its psychological depth, especially in its handling of mental health and the redefinition of traditional masculinity. It portrays masculinity as vulnerable rather than strong and stoic. However, the film is limited by its narrow focus on a single white European perspective. It lacks any engagement with LGBTQ+ themes or identities. Overall, the film prioritizes a deep, nuanced look at internal human vulnerabilities and the complexities of family bonds over broader social representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does Aftersun have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film centers on a traditional family structure where there are no explicit representations of LGBTQ+ relationships or identities.

How does Aftersun portray gender?

Good

The movie challenges the typical portrayal of masculinity by showing Calum as emotionally unstable instead of strong and stoic. Sophie takes the lead in investigating the story's events.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Aftersun?

Limited

The cast is predominantly white and European, set in a Mediterranean environment. The story does not explore racial or ethnic diversity.

How does Aftersun represent religion and culture?

Good

The film presents a complex view of family life, highlighting the complicated and sometimes broken parent-child relationships. It emphasizes personal memories and human flaws over idealized morals.

Does Aftersun include disability representation?

Good

Calum’s struggle with depression is shown as a genuine part of his life rather than just a plot device. The film avoids clichés by focusing on the real, isolating experience of mental health issues.

Present on Screen

Sophisticated and respectful depiction of mental health issues.
Challenges the stereotype of a strong, stoic masculinity.
Complex and nuanced exploration of the fractured nuclear family.

Limited or Absent

Limited racial and ethnic diversity among the cast.
No representation of LGBTQ+ individuals or themes.

Official Synopsis

Sophie reflects on the shared joy and private melancholy of a holiday she took with her father twenty years earlier. Memories fill the gaps between camcorder footages as she tries to reconcile the father she knew with the troubled man she didn't.

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