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Dealt

Name: Dealt
Director: Luke Korem
Released: 2017
Duration: 85 min

Representation Score

6.7/10

Good

2017

Not Rated

Director

Luke Korem

Runtime

85 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Dealt is a focused biographical study that excels in its portrayal of disability. By focusing on Richard Turner’s technical mastery as a blind magician, the film avoids the trap of 'inspiration porn' and instead highlights professional ability to act. However, the film's narrow focus limits its broader social impact. The narrative is highly individualized, which results in a lack of engagement with diverse racial, gendered, or LGBTQ+ perspectives. Ultimately, while the film lacks multicultural complexity, it provides a high-quality, nuanced look at how a physical limitation can coexist with extreme technical excellence.

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Category Breakdown

Does Dealt have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include any explicit references to LGBTQ+ characters or stories. It focuses solely on the professional life and sensory experiences of Richard Turner.

How does Dealt portray gender?

Fair

The story centers around a single male protagonist and operates as a character study without significantly challenging traditional gender power structures.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Dealt?

Fair

The documentary focuses on an individual journey rather than showcasing a diverse cast of characters. There is no indication that racial or ethnic diversity influences the plot.

How does Dealt represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film presents a layered psychological portrait that questions typical views of human potential. It avoids direct criticism of Western or capitalist systems.

Does Dealt include disability representation?

Excellent

The film excels by showing blindness as part of expertise rather than a source of pity. Turner is portrayed who play a significant role in driving the story and professional skill.

Present on Screen

Provides a sophisticated, non-pitying portrayal of a protagonist with a significant disability.
Highlights the ability to act and intellectual depth of a master craftsman.
Questions conventional media expectations regarding human capability and sensory experience.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight narratives.
The singular focus on a male protagonist limits gender-based diversity.
Does not incorporate racial or ethnic diversity to broaden the narrative scope.

Official Synopsis

Sixty-two year old Richard Turner is renowned as one of the world’s greatest card magicians, yet he is completely blind. This is an in-depth look at a complex character who is one of magic’s greatest hidden treasures.

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