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Smart Politics

Name: Smart Politics
Director: Will Jason
Released: 1948
Duration: 65 min

Representation Score

1.2/10

Minimal

1948

Approved

Director

Will Jason

Runtime

65 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Smart Politics operates as a typical mid-century social comedy. The plot centers on a local conflict between youthful idealism and a self-serving political figure, Mayor Phineas Wharton Sr. While the 'Teen-Agers' function as a collective interest group, the film adheres to the traditional genre structures of the late 1940s. The production lacks complexity in addressing multiple aspects of identity or intentional narrative disruptions. It aligns with the cinematic norms of the era, emphasizing community development and moral conflict over diverse social representation. Ultimately, the film stands as a conventional piece of musical comedy that prioritizes civic themes over diverse social representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does Smart Politics have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any depictions of LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex relationships. The story revolves around a group of young people following typical romantic storylines of the time.

How does Smart Politics portray gender?

Limited

The film features female characters such as Dodie and Betty who are part of the main youth group. However, the plot primarily focuses on a conflict between youth and male political figures.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Smart Politics?

Limited

The setting and character names suggest a homogeneous society. There is no indication of ethnic diversity or varied casting within the central conflict.

How does Smart Politics represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story delves into civic morality and the tension between personal greed and communal well-being. It emphasizes the preservation of local institutions rather than challenging them.

Does Smart Politics include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities in the narrative. The focus remains on the civic struggle and issues related to juvenile crime.

Present on Screen

Features female characters like Dodie and Betty within the main youth group.
Explores themes of civic morality and the importance of community-focused development.

Limited or Absent

Does not depict LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight characters.
Shows no evidence of racial or ethnic diversity in its small-town setting.
Provides no representation of visible or invisible disabilities.

Official Synopsis

The growth of small-town juvenile crime starts a movement for the construction of a youth center. The project leaders discuss with town mayor Phineas Wharton Sr. about buying an old warehouse and rebuilding it as the Center. However, Wharton has plans to buy it himself for another project from which he would profit. But the Teen-Agers--Freddie, Dodie, Betty, Lee and Roy--now attending San Juan Junior College, think otherwise.

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