You are here:

Der var engang

Name: Der var engang
Director: John Price
Released: 1966
Duration: 103 min

Representation Score

2.0/10

Limited

1966

Director

John Price

Runtime

103 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Der var engang is a mid-century fantasy that adheres strictly to the genre conventions of its era. The narrative focuses on a linear, heterosexual romantic pursuit that reinforces established social hierarchies. The film lacks intentionality regarding multi-layered or subversive themes. Instead, it prioritizes a traditional fairy-tale structure where monarchical authority and patriarchal consequences dictate the plot's direction. Ultimately, the work functions as a standard period piece that reflects the social norms of the 1960s rather than challenging them.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Der var engang have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film follows a traditional heterosexual relationship between a princess and a prince. There is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or critiques of traditional romantic structures.

How does Der var engang portray gender?

Fair

The princess initially rejects suitors, showing independence, but her autonomy is eventually restricted by male authority. Male characters drive the plot through deception and magical intervention.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Der var engang?

Limited

Set in a European-style fantasy kingdom, the cast appears homogeneous. There is no indication of racial diversity or varied ethnic representation within the narrative.

How does Der var engang represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story operates within a traditional moral framework centered on monarchical authority. It reinforces social hierarchies rather than offering secular or alternative cultural perspectives.

Does Der var engang include disability representation?

Minimal

While a dwarf character is mentioned, it is unclear if this depicts a meaningful disability or relies on standard folklore clichés.

Present on Screen

The princess initially shows independence by rejecting various suitors.
The film uses classic, recognizable folklore structures for family entertainment.

Limited or Absent

The narrative reinforces patriarchal structures by having the father punish the princess.
The cast lacks racial and ethnic diversity, remaining within a homogeneous European setting.
The plot relies on traditional heterosexual clichés without exploring diverse identities.

Official Synopsis

The princess of Illyria, who has rejected all the fine suitors who have proposed to her, begins to take an interest in a gypsy who wanders around near the castle and who is in fact none other than the prince of Denmark with his friend, Kasper Røghat. The prince entices her with his magical toys, a rattle and a copper kettle, the price being a kiss and a night in the princess's chamber. Casper the Dwarf makes sure that the king is informed of the 'affair', and the princess is thrown out by her father.

How are these scores produced? →