You are here:

Fear

Name: Fear
Director: Robert Wiene
Released: 1917
Duration: 73 min

Representation Score

1.8/10

Minimal

1917

Director

Robert Wiene

Runtime

73 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Robert Wiene’s work focuses on the aestheticization of psychological dread rather than the subversion of social hierarchies. The film functions as a standard example of early silent horror, relying on individual drama and colonialist motifs common to 1917. The narrative lacks complexity in reflecting multiple aspects of identity. It prioritizes a traditional Western perspective where a protagonist's actions trigger supernatural consequences, leaving little room for diverse or nuanced character development.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Fear have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any characters with non-straight or non-cisgender identities. It follows a traditional story focused on a single protagonist facing supernatural conflicts.

How does Fear portray gender?

Limited

The story centers around a male millionaire who drives the plot. There is no indication of women taking a leading role or challenging traditional gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Fear?

Fair

Non-Western characters appear as 'natives' who serve as triggers for a curse. This reflects colonial stereotypes rather than providing characters with independent roles.

How does Fear represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story follows a Western framework where a wealthy person faces consequences for stealing a foreign idol. It reinforces standard moral causality and superstitions.

Does Fear include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no evidence of characters portraying physical or neurodivergent disabilities within the film.

Present on Screen

The film serves as a foundational example of German Expressionism and early horror aesthetics.

Limited or Absent

The film relies on colonialist stereotypes and lacks roles for non-Western characters.
The narrative lacks gender diversity, focusing almost exclusively on a male protagonist.
There is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or disability.

Official Synopsis

A millionaire steals an ancient idol causing some natives call upon him a terrible curse.

How are these scores produced? →