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Smorgasbord

Smorgasbord

Representation Score

2.2/10

Limited

1983

PG

Director

Jerry Lewis

Runtime

89 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Smorgasbord is a character-driven comedy that centers on the protagonist's personal struggles with suicidal thoughts and bad luck. The narrative structure focuses on the individual's experiences rather than broader social or identity dynamics. The film adheres to traditional comedic structures, using slapstick humor and the 'clown' archetype. This emphasis on personal misfortune suggests a work that does not aim to deconstruct social hierarchies or provide diverse representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does Smorgasbord have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any characters with non-straight or non-cisgender identities, nor does it depict any same-sex relationships. The story revolves around the protagonist's personal journey and his interactions with a psychiatrist.

How does Smorgasbord portray gender?

Limited

The story centers on a male protagonist named Warren Nefron. Without more information on the supporting cast, the film seems to rely on traditional comedic stereotypes rather than challenging gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Smorgasbord?

Limited

There is no information about the racial or ethnic makeup of the cast. Given its era, the film likely follows typical casting practices for mainstream 1980s comedies.

How does Smorgasbord represent religion and culture?

Limited

The plot examines mental health through a traditional Western psychological perspective. It does not explicitly criticize Western institutions or religious traditions.

Does Smorgasbord include disability representation?

Fair

The protagonist's clumsiness may hint at neurodivergence or mental health issues. However, these traits might be used as comedic devices rather than giving the character real control over the story.

Present on Screen

  • Explores themes of mental health and existential crisis through a comedic lens.
  • Provides a focused character study of a singular, maladapted protagonist.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks evidence of diverse racial, ethnic, or LGBTQ+ representation.
  • Relies on traditional comedic clichés that may use disability or misfortune as slapstick.
  • Focuses on a male-centric narrative without challenging gendered power dynamics.

Official Synopsis

Warren Nefron is a hopeless klutz who has some of the worst luck in the world: when he tries to end it all with a foolproof suicide plan, he still manages to mess it up. In desperation, he goes to a psychiatrist to see if there is some way for him to end his troubles.

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