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Hidden in America

Name: Hidden in America
Director: Martin Bell
Released: 1996
Duration: 95 min

Representation Score

6.9/10

Good

1996

PG-13

Director

Martin Bell

Runtime

95 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Hidden in America offers a realistic portrayal of life in a stagnant small town. It challenges traditional moral hierarchies and refuses to endorse conventional Western social structures. By presenting a sophisticated critique of the coming-of-age myth, the film delves into themes of alienation and moral ambiguity. However, the film lacks significant racial and disability-based representation. The narrative focuses on a homogeneous, white, working-class demographic, limiting its depth in reflecting multiple aspects of diversity. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its rejection of mainstream didacticism, opting instead for a nuanced and unsettling exploration of adolescent life.

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Category Breakdown

Does Hidden in America have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film examines sexual exploration during adolescence rather than fixed identities. It highlights the uncertainty and confusion surrounding teenage desires within a society that assumes everyone is straight.

How does Hidden in America portray gender?

Good

The story challenges typical gender roles by focusing on shifting power dynamics among teenagers. It avoids traditional romantic outcomes, providing a detailed look at how young people navigate social interactions based on gender.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Hidden in America?

Limited

The film is set in a predominantly white, rural, working-class community. There is limited diversity, resulting in a narrative focused on a single social group.

How does Hidden in America represent religion and culture?

Good

The film presents moral relativism and situational ethics. It portrays adolescent misbehavior as a result of environmental factors rather than personal moral failings.

Does Hidden in America include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not significantly address visible or invisible disabilities. The characters' challenges are mainly social and psychological.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional moral hierarchies and avoids didacticism.
Provides a nuanced view of adolescent gendered social navigation.
Offers a sophisticated critique of small-town stagnation and systemic alienation.

Limited or Absent

Lacks racial diversity and ethnic representation.
Provides minimal representation for individuals with disabilities.
Does not center explicit LGBTQ+ identities or formal same-sex narratives.

Official Synopsis

Story of a man whose pride in being the head of his family won't let him accept help from his sick daughters doctor. He has to prove to his kids that even with the death of his wife and the loss of his job that they can and will survive. After hitting brick wall after brick wall comes a glimmer of hope.

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