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Something to Think About

Name: Something to Think About
Director: Cecil B. DeMille
Released: 1920
Duration: 78 min

Representation Score

3.2/10

Limited

1920

Director

Cecil B. DeMille

Runtime

78 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

This 1920 drama by Cecil B. DeMille operates as a traditional period piece that upholds established social hierarchies. The narrative relies heavily on conventional gender roles and class dynamics from the early 20th century. While the film delves into complex moral issues related to wealth and legitimacy, it does not significantly disrupt the status quo. Characters function within a framework of traditional morality and homogeneous social structures. Representation is limited, focusing on traditional heterosexual marriages and the protection of lineage. The film adheres to the dramatic standards of its time without challenging multi-layered frameworks.

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Category Breakdown

Does Something to Think About have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on traditional heterosexual relationships and family structures. It does not include any characters with non-straight or non-cisgender identities.

How does Something to Think About portray gender?

Fair

Ruth's role is largely shaped by the men around her. Her journey is defined by the need for male protection, which reflects the traditional portrayal of women in early 20th-century films.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Something to Think About?

Minimal

The setting appears to be homogeneous, with no indication of a multi-ethnic cast. The film does not challenge the Anglo-centric norms of the time.

How does Something to Think About represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story examines class differences and traditional moral values. The conflict revolves around maintaining social standing and family honor, without questioning broader Western institutions.

Does Something to Think About include disability representation?

Fair

Markley is shown as a wealthy man with a disability who holds significant economic power. His disability is used to motivate his character development, but it does not delve deeply into the lived experience of disability.

Present on Screen

Markley's character demonstrates significant economic power despite his disability.
The film explores important themes of class disparity and the responsibilities of wealth.

Limited or Absent

The female protagonist's story is primarily driven by her relationships with men, lacking independent ability to act.
The narrative lacks racial and ethnic diversity, reflecting a homogeneous social environment.
The film adheres to traditional heterosexual structures without exploring diverse identities.

Official Synopsis

Wealthy cripple Markley finances the education of blacksmith's daughter Ruth. When she returns to their small town he asks to marry her, but she runs off with city worker Jim Dirk who is then killed in a subway accident. Markley offers to marry her in name only to protect her new son.

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