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The Call of the Wild

Name: The Call of the Wild
Director: Chris Sanders
Released: 2020
Duration: 100 min

Representation Score

1.3/10

Minimal

2020

Director

Chris Sanders

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film follows a traditional hero's journey that emphasizes classic adventure clichés over modern storytelling that reflects multiple aspects of identity. The narrative structure revolves around conventional masculine archetypes and the evolution of a canine protagonist. Despite the setting allowing for a diverse cast of travelers, the film does not offer a progressive critique of power dynamics or social hierarchies. Instead, it focuses on universal themes of nature versus civilization without exploring specific racial or cultural intersections. Overall, the production serves as a standard period piece that reinforces established social frameworks without disrupting them.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Call of the Wild have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature any LGBTQ+ characters or explore non-straight relationships. The interpersonal dynamics center on the relationship between the male lead and his canine companion.

How does The Call of the Wild portray gender?

Limited

Male characters, particularly the rugged individualist John Thornton, dominate the story. The film upholds traditional gender roles without challenging them.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Call of the Wild?

Fair

The cast includes various miners and travelers, reflecting a typical period adventure ensemble. However, the story does not prioritize non-Anglo-Saxon perspectives.

How does The Call of the Wild represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film examines greed through a traditional moral lens, focusing on individual survival and the law of the wild. It does not delve into systemic critiques or cultural deconstruction.

Does The Call of the Wild include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no prominent depictions of physical, neurodivergent, or sensory disabilities. Disability is not used as a narrative device or tool for character development.

Present on Screen

The film showcases a diverse array of miners and travelers within its period setting.
It effectively explores universal themes related to the corrupting nature of greed and human instinct.

Limited or Absent

The narrative lacks female characters with significant influence or meaningful narrative impact.
The story does not include any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or neurodivergent characters.
The film does not engage with systemic critiques of power or cultural intersections.

Official Synopsis

Buck is a big-hearted dog whose blissful domestic life is turned upside down when he is suddenly uprooted from his California home and transplanted to the exotic wilds of the Yukon during the Gold Rush of the 1890s. As the newest rookie on a mail delivery dog sled team—and later its leader—Buck experiences the adventure of a lifetime, ultimately finding his true place in the world and becoming his own master.

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