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Islander

Name: Islander
Director: Stéphane Goël
Released: 2018
Duration: 92 min

Representation Score

4.2/10

Fair

2018

TV-G

Director

Stéphane Goël

Runtime

92 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Islander is a sophisticated documentary that challenges conventional historical narratives. It dismantles the myth of the isolated aristocrat by highlighting the indigenous political struggle. This approach disrupts traditional Western narratives of discovery and settlement. The film's strength lies in elevating the ability to act and cultural continuity of the indigenous population. It frames the European colonial project as a failed experiment, shifting the focus from individualist Western histories to systemic, localized perspectives. While the film excels in cultural and racial representation, it lacks specific details regarding LGBTQ+ identities or narratives. Additionally, it does not provide explicit gender subversions within the narrative.

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Category Breakdown

Does Islander have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any characters or stories related to LGBTQ+ identities.

How does Islander portray gender?

Fair

The film focuses on a male historical figure but shifts its attention to his descendants, suggesting a multi-generational story that likely includes women's roles in preserving indigenous identity.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Islander?

Excellent

The documentary highlights the ability to act of non-Western subjects. It moves away from Anglo-centric legends to emphasize the indigenous identity and autonomy of Chilean islanders.

How does Islander represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film strongly critiques colonial themes. It contrasts a failed Western aristocratic 'kingdom' with the communal and political goals of the local population.

Does Islander include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no specific mention of the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Present on Screen

Highlights the ability to act and political autonomy of the indigenous population.
Challenges colonial clichés by presenting the European colonial project as a failed experiment.
Offers a non-Western perspective on the Robinson Crusoe legend.

Limited or Absent

Includes no explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or narratives.
Provides no specific evidence regarding disability representation.
Does not detail specific gender-based subversions within the narrative.

Official Synopsis

In 1877 a Swiss aristocrat, Alfred von Rodt, became the governor of the remote Chilean island that gave birth to the legend of Robinson Crusoe. Exiled from his country and family, Von Rodt strived to build a utopian “little kingdom” until his death, but failed and lost his entire fortune. The film tells the story of this outcast through the lives of his descendants, who today seek political autonomy and a preservation of their indigenous identity.

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