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The Substance: Albert Hofmann's LSD

Name: The Substance: Albert Hofmann's LSD
Director: Martin Witz
Released: 2011
Duration: 90 min

Representation Score

1.2/10

Minimal

2011

Not Rated

Director

Martin Witz

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Substance is a historical documentary centered on the accidental discovery of LSD by Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann. Its structure is driven by pharmacological investigation and scientific chronology rather than social commentary. Because the film prioritizes archival accuracy and the biography of a single scientist, it lacks the intentionality needed to disrupt traditional demographic hierarchies. The narrative reflects the historical reality of mid-20th-century scientific institutions. Ultimately, the film functions as a factual investigation into a specific chemical event. It does not aim to drive progressive social narratives or provide multi-layered character development.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Substance: Albert Hofmann's LSD have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on the scientific biography of Albert Hofmann. There are no visible LGBTQ+ character arcs or narratives addressing non-straight identities.

How does The Substance: Albert Hofmann's LSD portray gender?

Limited

The narrative centers on the male-dominated field of mid-20th-century chemistry. It reflects the historical gender norms of the 1940s scientific community.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Substance: Albert Hofmann's LSD?

Limited

The subject matter is rooted in Swiss scientific history. The film likely reflects the demographic homogeneity of Western scientific institutions during that era.

How does The Substance: Albert Hofmann's LSD represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film explores society's troubled relationship with LSD. However, it maintains a scientific and historical framework rather than a critique of religion or capitalism.

Does The Substance: Albert Hofmann's LSD include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no information regarding the depiction of neurodivergence or mental health. The documentary does not address physical disabilities.

Present on Screen

Provides a focused historical investigation into the scientific discovery of LSD.
Maintains an emphasis on archival accuracy and pharmacological history.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of diverse identities beyond the central scientific figure.
Does not explore social hierarchies or non-traditional demographic perspectives.
Reflects the demographic homogeneity of mid-20th-century Western science.

Official Synopsis

By coincidence rather than by design, the Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann makes a sensational discovery in the spring of 1943. He realizes that he is dealing with a powerful molecule that will have an impact that reaches far beyond the scientific world. THE SUBSTANCE is an investigation into our troubled relationship with LSD, told from its beginnings to today.

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