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The Ordeal of Dr. Mudd

Name: The Ordeal of Dr. Mudd
Director: Paul Wendkos
Released: 1980
Duration: 145 min

Representation Score

1.5/10

Minimal

1980

Director

Paul Wendkos

Runtime

145 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film operates as a traditional period drama reflecting the social norms of the mid-19th century. It emphasizes a character study of ethical ambiguity rather than diverse identities. While the film avoids overt stereotypes, it does not actively challenge established hierarchies of race, gender, or identity. The focus remains on historical figures from the American Civil War era. The film's progressive element lies in its refusal to present a simplistic moral landscape, using the protagonist's dilemma to explore professional ethics against a reactionary society.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Ordeal of Dr. Mudd have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film reflects the straight-centered standards of its 1865 setting, showing no depictions of same-sex relationships or non-cisgender identities.

How does The Ordeal of Dr. Mudd portray gender?

Limited

The narrative centers on male-dominated fields such as medicine and law. Dr. Mudd’s wife provides a traditional supportive role, reinforcing conventional gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Ordeal of Dr. Mudd?

Limited

The film focuses almost entirely on white historical figures. Characters of color have minimal roles and are not used to critique racial dynamics.

How does The Ordeal of Dr. Mudd represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film examines situational ethics and moral relativism. It portrays the legal system as potentially corrupt or unstable, critiquing institutional volatility.

Does The Ordeal of Dr. Mudd include disability representation?

Minimal

A physical injury serves as a plot device rather than a detailed exploration of disability. Neurodivergence and chronic illness are not prominently featured.

Present on Screen

Explores complex situational ethics and moral relativism.
Critiques mob mentality and reactionary justice.
Avoids promoting overt social stereotypes.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of non-cisgender identities or LGBTQ+ characters.
Features limited roles for characters of color.
Does not explore disability beyond its utility as a plot device.

Official Synopsis

The story of the doctor who faced charges of conspiracy after he assisted John Wilkes Booth by setting his broken leg after he had assassinated Abraham Lincoln.

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