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Small Time

Name: Small Time
Director: Joel Surnow
Released: 2014
Duration: 95 min

Representation Score

2.5/10

Limited

2014

Director

Joel Surnow

Runtime

95 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Small Time is a conventional character study that emphasizes traditional themes of masculinity, legacy, and professional ethics. The narrative structure revolves around a male-centric world, focusing on the relationship between a father and son within the used car industry. The film's representation is limited by its focus on conventional American archetypes and heterosexual relationships. It operates within a traditional framework, lacking efforts to challenge social hierarchies or offer diverse perspectives. Ultimately, the film offers a standard exploration of domestic and professional life, failing to provide much in the way of diverse viewpoints or social subversion.

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Category Breakdown

Does Small Time have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities, focusing instead on heterosexual relationships.

How does Small Time portray gender?

Fair

The story centers on male-driven professional environments and paternal mentorship. Barbara, a female character, mainly serves to advance the male lead's emotional journey.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Small Time?

Limited

There is no indication of a diverse cast, and the setting suggests a homogeneous depiction of small-town American life.

How does Small Time represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film explores themes of capitalism and traditional family dynamics, focusing on morality and professional ethics without critiquing Western institutions.

Does Small Time include disability representation?

Minimal

The narrative does not feature any characters with visible or invisible disabilities, neurodivergence, or chronic health conditions.

Present on Screen

Offers a focused character study on the moral development of a young man entering a professional trade.

Limited or Absent

Lacks complexity and diversity across racial, gender, and LGBTQ+ spectrums.
Relies on traditional gender roles and male-driven professional environments.
Does not provide visibility for characters with disabilities or neurodivergent identities.

Official Synopsis

Al Klein and his longtime friend, Ash Martini, own a used car lot and these two know every trick in the book when it comes to selling cars. Klein still pines for his ex-wife Barbara who left him years ago for a more successful man. After their son Freddy graduates from high school, he decides to forego college in favor of selling cars with his old man. But what’s good for Klein might not be the best thing for Freddy, as he quickly transforms from an innocent young man into a jaded car salesman, leaving Al with a tough decision to make.

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