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Proper Binge

Name: Proper Binge
Director: Michael Burns, Dean Q. Mitchell
Released: 2015
Duration: 102 min

Representation Score

5.2/10

Fair

2015

Director

Michael Burns, Dean Q. Mitchell

Runtime

102 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Proper Binge provides a realistic portrayal of addiction that avoids typical blockbuster clichés. It integrates Indigenous perspectives into the emotional core of the story, using an Inupiaq character to drive character development rather than as a peripheral figure. The film also challenges traditional masculinity. Instead of a competent hero, the protagonist is portrayed as reckless and flawed, presenting a vulnerable depiction of personal dysfunction. While the film lacks LGBTQ+ representation and subversive gender elements, its focus on restorative justice and diverse interpersonal dynamics creates a nuanced dramatic structure.

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Category Breakdown

Does Proper Binge have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include explicit LGBTQ+ characters or stories about non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities. The plot mainly deals with substance abuse and personal reconciliation.

How does Proper Binge portray gender?

Fair

The story revolves around a male-driven journey of self-destruction. It breaks down traditional masculine roles by showing the protagonist's profound dysfunction and vulnerability.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Proper Binge?

Good

The film includes a meaningful Inupiaq character who plays a key role in personal growth. This adds a nuanced perspective that contrasts with the protagonist's Western-centric issues.

How does Proper Binge represent religion and culture?

Fair

The movie explores moral relativism and restorative ethics rather than punishment. It avoids a preachy tone while depicting the systemic harm caused by addiction.

Does Proper Binge include disability representation?

Fair

The film focuses on alcoholism, exploring chronic health issues and addiction. It includes a lifelong alcoholic, offering a detailed look at long-term dependency.

Present on Screen

Incorporates an Inupiaq character into the central emotional storyline.
Challenges traditional masculine roles through a vulnerable protagonist.
Explores addiction and the complexities of personal responsibility.

Limited or Absent

Does not include explicit LGBTQ+ characters or stories about non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities.
The narrative remains centered on a traditional male-driven arc of redemption.

Official Synopsis

For Burgess "Buzz" Zwink (Bradford Jackson), wasting life is a way of life. At thirty-two years old, and still living with his parents, Buzz's adult life seems to be nothing more than a continuous haze of debauchery. That is until his carefree recklessness lands his lifelong friend in the hospital after another of his drunken mishaps. Faced with the reality of his choices as he reluctantly forces himself into sobriety, Buzz begins to realize just how much pain he has caused to those around him. With the help of a young Inupiaq boy (D'Artagnon Moonin), and an elderly, life-long alcoholic (Thomas G. Jacobs), Buzz must face his past, present, and possible future in order to take his life back from the bottle, and above all else, seek forgiveness not only from those he has wronged, but from himself.

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