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Augmented

Name: Augmented
Director: Matthew Orr
Released: 2020
Duration: 81 min

Representation Score

7.7/10

Good

2020

TV-14

Director

Matthew Orr

Runtime

81 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Augmented is a specialized documentary that excels in its portrayal of disability. By focusing on Hugh Herr, a scientist and double amputee, the film moves beyond traditional tragic narratives to highlight empowerment through innovation. While the film shines in its representation of disability, it remains limited in scope. The narrative is deeply personal to Herr, leaving little room for broader explorations of racial, ethnic, or LGBTQ+ identities. Ultimately, the film succeeds as a progressive exploration of human ability to act. It replaces traditional physical archetypes with a focus on how intellect and technology can redefine biological limits.

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Category Breakdown

Does Augmented have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include any explicit mention of LGBTQ+ characters or identities.

How does Augmented portray gender?

Fair

The story centers on a male protagonist named Hugh Herr. It avoids traditional heroic stereotypes by highlighting his vulnerability and intellectual achievements over physical dominance.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Augmented?

Fair

The film focuses on Herr's personal journey. There are no specific details about the racial makeup of the cast or the scientific community shown.

How does Augmented represent religion and culture?

Good

The film emphasizes scientific secularism and the pursuit of knowledge. It challenges traditional views by presenting human evolution through technological advancements and personal empowerment.

Does Augmented include disability representation?

Excellent

This is the film's strongest area, focusing on Hugh Herr, a double amputee who is portrayed as a creator of technology rather than a passive recipient of care.

Present on Screen

Exceptional portrayal of disability that centers on empowerment and scientific innovation.
Avoids traditional masculine clichés by emphasizing intellectual achievement and vulnerability.
Promotes a progressive worldview centered on scientific secularism and human ability to act.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit representation or narrative focus on LGBTQ+ identities.
Provides no visible evidence of racial or ethnic diversity within the depicted community.
The narrow biographical focus limits the scope of broader social representation.

Official Synopsis

The personal journey of Hugh Herr, a double amputee and MIT scientist who creates brain-controlled robotic limbs. At 17, Hugh survived a near-death experience while climbing Mount Washington. Stunned by the prosthetic he was given, and realizing there was untapped potential for such devices, Hugh set out to improve the field of prosthetics. His innovative success leads to a major scientific breakthrough, a radical new way of performing amputations, and more.

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