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Criminal

Name: Criminal
Director: Ariel Vromen
Released: 2016
Duration: 113 min

Representation Score

2.8/10

Limited

2016

Director

Ariel Vromen

Runtime

113 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Criminal is a high-concept thriller that prioritizes genre clichés over social disruption. While the cast includes diverse actors, the narrative remains tied to conventional hierarchies and traditional storytelling structures. The film focuses on the psychological struggle of a single protagonist, preventing the exploration of broader racial, cultural, or gendered dynamics.

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Category Breakdown

Does Criminal have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. Social and romantic dynamics are centered around heterosexual relationships.

How does Criminal portray gender?

Limited

Gender roles adhere to traditional hierarchies. The male lead drives the plot, while female characters often act as catalysts or damsels in distress.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Criminal?

Fair

Representation is moderate, featuring Black actors in key roles. However, race is not a central theme in the story.

How does Criminal represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story follows a standard Western commercial framework. It examines state-related technology and surveillance through personal ethics rather than systemic issues.

Does Criminal include disability representation?

Limited

Psychic abilities are used as a science fiction device. These altered states of consciousness lack a nuanced exploration of lived neurodivergent experiences.

Present on Screen

The film includes Black actors in central, prominent roles.

Limited or Absent

The narrative relies on outdated gender clichés like the damsel in distress.
Neurodivergent elements are used as plot devices rather than authentic representations.
The film lacks LGBTQ+ visibility and queer narratives.
Cultural themes remain within standard Western institutional conventions.

Official Synopsis

CIA Agent Bill Pope is on a mission to track down a shadowy hacker named 'The Dutchman'. When he gets mysteriously killed, an experimental procedure transfers his memories into a dangerous ex-convict. When he wakes up Pope's memories, his mission is to eliminate The Dutchman before the hacker launches ICBMs and starts World War III.

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