You are here:

Cielo

Name: Cielo
Director: Alison McAlpine
Released: 2017
Duration: 78 min

Representation Score

3.9/10

Limited

2017

Director

Alison McAlpine

Runtime

78 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Cielo is a sophisticated observational documentary that successfully de-centers the Western perspective. By focusing on the inhabitants of the Atacama Desert, the film offers a nuanced portrait of human ability to act within a vast landscape. The work excels in its portrayal of non-Western labor and the intersection of traditional existence with scientific inquiry. It elevates localized perspectives through a non-interventionalist storytelling approach. However, the film lacks explicit engagement with identity politics or specific LGBTQ+ themes. Its scope remains focused on the relationship between human vocation and the celestial environment.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Cielo have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary focuses on vocational and geographic studies in the Andes. There is no evidence of LGBTQ+ narratives or identities within this specific context.

How does Cielo portray gender?

Fair

The film presents a complex, contemplative masculinity by documenting workers in traditional labor roles. It disrupts the cliché of the rugged, stoic laborer through themes of reverence.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Cielo?

Good

High levels of ethnic diversity are achieved by centering the indigenous and local populations of northern Chile. The narrative shifts focus toward non-Anglo-Saxon communities.

How does Cielo represent religion and culture?

Good

The film juxtaposes traditional ways of life with scientific endeavors. It emphasizes a spiritual connection to the cosmos rather than a monolithic or Western-centric view.

Does Cielo include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no information regarding the depiction of neurodivergence or physical disabilities among the subjects.

Present on Screen

Centers indigenous and local populations of northern Chile.
Challenges traditional masculine clichés through thoughtful character studies.
Contrasts ancient traditions with modern scientific pursuits.
Empowers non-Western subjects and laborers through its narrative.

Limited or Absent

Does not explicitly represent LGBTQ+ identities.
Does not address neurodivergence or physical disabilities.
Maintains a narrow focus on specific geographic and vocational studies.

Official Synopsis

The first feature from Alison McAlpine is a dialogue with the heavens—in this case, the heavens above the Andes and the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, where she alights on the desert- and mountain-dwelling astronomers, fishermen, miners, and cowboys who live their lives with reverence and awe for the skies.

How are these scores produced? →