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The Time Machine (I Found at a Yardsale)

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Representation Score

2.5/10

Limited

2011

NR

Director

Steven A. Sandt

Runtime

84 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

This low-budget science fiction film prioritizes genre clichés and experimental storytelling over social commentary. The narrative follows a standard hero’s journey without addressing multi-layered identities or disrupting social hierarchies. While the cast list suggests a multi-ethnic group, the plot remains focused on a singular discovery without exploring the roles of diverse characters. The film serves primarily as a genre exercise rather than a tool for progressive representation. Ultimately, it lacks the intentionality needed to engage with systemic social structures.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Time Machine (I Found at a Yardsale) have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or stories about non-cisgender identities. It focuses on a traditional storyline without addressing these themes.

How does The Time Machine (I Found at a Yardsale) portray gender?

Fair

The story centers around a male-coded character following a conventional journey. It does not challenge gender hierarchies or highlight significant roles for female characters.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Time Machine (I Found at a Yardsale)?

Limited

Although the cast includes actors from different ethnic backgrounds, the plot does not explore how these identities intersect with the story. Characters of color do not significantly influence the main conflict.

How does The Time Machine (I Found at a Yardsale) represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film leans towards traditional science fiction themes without delving into complex moral relativism. It does not critique institutional power or cultural dynamics.

Does The Time Machine (I Found at a Yardsale) include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no mention of characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities in the film.

Present on Screen

  • The cast list indicates a multi-ethnic ensemble.
  • The film offers a classic science fiction escape.

Limited or Absent

  • The narrative lacks intentionality regarding multi-layered identities.
  • The story relies on conventional gender clichés and male-coded protagonists.
  • There is no evidence of characters of color driving the central plot.

Official Synopsis

How many times has this happened to you? Your mother goes out of town for a few weeks and you agree to take in her mail. You ride your bike over to her house and on the way you stop at a yardsale where an old man sells you a strange-looking gold box for seventeen dollars. Of course! It's happened to all of us how many times? It seems like every other movie begins the same way. But wait! Just as the movie seems to be mired in the mundane, it goes totally nuts!

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