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Good Against Evil

Name: Good Against Evil
Director: Paul Wendkos
Released: 1977
Duration: 84 min

Representation Score

2.5/10

Limited

1977

Director

Paul Wendkos

Runtime

84 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Good Against Evil adheres closely to the established conventions of 1970s supernatural horror. The film relies on traditional genre clichés that prioritize Western moral structures and religious archetypes over social subversion. The narrative structure reinforces rigid hierarchies, especially concerning gender and ability to act. The central conflict is driven by male characters seeking to control or save a female character, which limits the scope of representation. Overall, the film lacks intentionality in challenging social expectations. Characters serve specific plot functions rather than representing diverse lived experiences.

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Category Breakdown

Does Good Against Evil have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film centers on a heterosexual relationship between Andy Stuart and Jessica Gordon. There is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex intimacy.

How does Good Against Evil portray gender?

Limited

The story emphasizes traditional gender roles where the male protagonist drives the action. The female lead is portrayed as a passive figure influenced by both demonic forces and masculine intervention.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Good Against Evil?

Limited

The main cast is primarily white, even though the setting is desolate. Minorities play atmospheric roles rather than having a significant role in driving the story.

How does Good Against Evil represent religion and culture?

Fair

The storyline depends on traditional religious authority and Western moral frameworks. Priests are the primary agents of action within a conventional spiritual structure.

Does Good Against Evil include disability representation?

Minimal

Demonic possession serves as a supernatural element for horror spectacle. The film does not explore neurodivergence or physical disabilities with nuance.

Present on Screen

Uses established religious archetypes to drive the supernatural horror narrative.

Limited or Absent

The film relies on passive female roles and traditional gender hierarchies.
Lack of diverse ethnic identities in positions of narrative power.
Absence of LGBTQ+ representation or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities.
Supernatural possession is used as spectacle rather than exploring disability with nuance.

Official Synopsis

Dack Rambo and Elyssa Davalos star as sweethearts Andy Stuart and Jessica Gordon. The course of true love is messed up when Satan claims Jessica as his own personal property. Desperately, Andy turns to a pair of priests, Fathers Kemschler and Wheatley, for spiritual guidance, not to mention a bit of brute force in purging poor Jessica of her demons.

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