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Bliss

Bliss

Representation Score

7.3/10

Good

2017

Director

Jerrold Tarog

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Bliss succeeds in offering a culturally specific experience by grounding its psychological thriller elements in a Filipino setting. By focusing on local perspectives, the film avoids the typical Western-normative viewpoint often seen in genre cinema. However, the film's representation of identity is limited. It relies on traditional structures and lacks significant LGBTQ+ presence. The exploration of disability also feels more tied to narrative tension than to character empowerment. Ultimately, Bliss is a sophisticated study of subjective reality. While it does not engage with overt multi-layered themes, its commitment to a non-Western viewpoint offers a nuanced departure from mainstream Hollywood conventions.

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Category Breakdown

Does Bliss have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film lacks prominent LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight relationships. The central relationship follows a traditional structure without significant queer dynamics.

How does Bliss portray gender?

Fair

The narrative focuses on the psychological breakdown of a female lead. While it avoids portraying women as mere domestic stabilizers, the story remains centered on romantic connections.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Bliss?

Good

The film features a predominantly Filipino cast set in Manila. It avoids a Western-normative lens by centering local perspectives and contemporary urban realities.

How does Bliss represent religion and culture?

Good

The story explores moral relativism and questions objective truth. However, it functions more as a psychological exploration than a critique of political or capitalist systems.

Does Bliss include disability representation?

Fair

Physical disability is shown through a character whose career is derailed by an accident. It is unclear if this disability provides real power or serves as a horror device.

Present on Screen

  • Strong cultural specificity through a predominantly Filipino cast and Manila setting.
  • Avoids Western-normative lenses by centering local socioeconomic realities.
  • Provides a nuanced, non-Western perspective on psychological horror.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks prominent LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight relationships.
  • Disability representation may serve more as a narrative device than a source of empowerment.
  • Does not engage with explicit systemic or political critiques.

Official Synopsis

After she gets into a film-production accident that leaves her crippled, successful actress Jane Ciego slowly transitions into madness after experiencing horrors and torture in her own home.

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