You are here:

State Fair

Name: State Fair
Director: José Ferrer
Released: 1962
Duration: 120 min

Representation Score

0.4/10

Minimal

1962

Approved

Director

José Ferrer

Runtime

120 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

State Fair is a classic example of mid-century traditional cinema. The film emphasizes stability and the preservation of established Western social norms through a streamlined storytelling approach. By focusing on an idealized depiction of rural America, the narrative avoids the complexities of diverse identities. Instead, it reinforces the social and cultural norms of its time. The production follows the conventions of mid-century Hollywood, prioritizing romantic idealism and traditional narrative structures without challenging the status quo.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does State Fair have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses solely on traditional heterosexual relationships and does not include any characters with LGBTQ+ identities or critique heteronormativity.

How does State Fair portray gender?

Limited

Female characters have strong emotional roles in the story but the narrative upholds traditional gender hierarchies. Male characters are defined by their work in agriculture and adherence to traditional pursuits.

How racially and ethnically diverse is State Fair?

Minimal

The cast is primarily made up of white actors, reflecting the limited diversity of a 1962 rural community. Characters of color do not have significant roles in the story.

How does State Fair represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story highlights the traditional American family and rural lifestyle. It presents an idealized view of stability and social order.

Does State Fair include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities. All characters are portrayed within a typical range of physical abilities.

Present on Screen

The film offers a cohesive and idealized portrayal of traditional Western institutions and rural life.

Limited or Absent

The narrative lacks diversity, featuring a predominantly white cast with limited racial or ethnic variety.
The film does not represent neurodivergence, chronic illness, or physical disabilities among its characters.
The story operates strictly within traditional heterosexual frameworks, without exploring non-traditional gender identities.

Official Synopsis

Texan farmers the Frake family head for the Texas State Fair in Dallas. The parents are focused on winning the competitions for livestock and cooking. However, their restless daughter Margy and her brother Wayne meet attractive new love interests.

How are these scores produced? →