You are here:

The Last of the High Kings

Name: The Last of the High Kings
Director: David Keating
Released: 1996
Duration: 102 min

Representation Score

3.3/10

Limited

1996

Director

David Keating

Runtime

102 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

This period-specific coming-of-age drama emphasizes local realism over diverse representation. It captures the social hierarchies of adolescent males in 1977 Dublin but stays within a narrow demographic scope. While the film provides a nuanced look at the loss of innocence and teenage desires, it lacks diverse casting and systemic critiques. The narrative structure relies on traditional formulas and a homogeneous cultural setting.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The Last of the High Kings have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on traditional heterosexual relationships and does not include prominent LGBTQ+ characters or narratives that challenge the assumption that everyone is straight.

How does The Last of the High Kings portray gender?

Limited

The story examines strict male social hierarchies and the pressures of adhering to masculine standards. Female characters are primarily portrayed through the male protagonist's perspective as objects of desire.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Last of the High Kings?

Limited

Set in 1977 Dublin, the cast is mainly white and Irish, reflecting the demographic characteristics of the specific historical and geographic context.

How does The Last of the High Kings represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative centers on the dynamics of family and friendship within a Western urban environment. It avoids broader critiques of religion or capitalism, focusing instead on a traditional coming-of-age storyline.

Does The Last of the High Kings include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no significant depictions of visible or invisible disabilities. Character struggles are primarily related to social and developmental issues rather than disability.

Present on Screen

Offers a nuanced look at the vulnerabilities of male adolescence.
Provides a sincere portrayal of the loss of innocence.
Captures the specific social hierarchies of 1977 Dublin.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from more diverse casting and varied representation.
Female characters lack significant roles and are often passive.
Does not engage deeply with systemic critiques of institutions.

Official Synopsis

It is 1977, Dublin rocks to the music of Thin Lizzy and the world is stunned by the death of Elvis Presley. Frankie, caught between acne and adulthood, has just completed his final exams in school. Convinced he will fail, he survives the summer organising a beach party, having lustful thoughts about two girls he believes are unobtainable and fending off the advances from a visiting American family friend, all whilst coping with his oddball family.

How are these scores produced? →