You are here:

America

Name: America
Director: Robert Downey Sr.
Released: 1986
Duration: 83 min

Representation Score

6.2/10

Good

1986

Director

Robert Downey Sr.

Runtime

83 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Robert Downey Sr. employs a fragmented, avant-garde structure to question the American Dream. By abandoning traditional storylines, the film sidesteps rigid social hierarchies common in 1980s cinema. The film offers a sophisticated critique of national identity as a fractured concept rather than a unified ideal. This approach allows for a nuanced, though symbolic, exploration of diverse social layers. While the film challenges many traditional structures, it lacks specific representations of LGBTQ+ identities or disabilities, leaving these areas largely unexplored within its surreal segments.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does America have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film doesn't have clear LGBTQ+ storylines or intimate moments between same-sex couples. However, its surreal style avoids typical straight-focused narratives, allowing space for non-traditional identities.

How does America portray gender?

Good

The film's surreal logic breaks down traditional gender roles and hierarchies. Using symbolic figures instead of straightforward plots, it avoids reinforcing traditional male dominance.

How racially and ethnically diverse is America?

Fair

A varied cast helps avoid a uniform depiction of American society. While characters often represent cultural layers symbolically, they prevent a singular, homogeneous image of identity.

How does America represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film skillfully dismantles Western institutions and the idealized American myth. It critiques capitalism and systemic beliefs through a postmodern, subjective viewpoint.

Does America include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not depict visible or invisible disabilities. There are no specific characters or plot points related to neurodivergence or physical disabilities.

Present on Screen

The surreal narrative structure effectively challenges traditional patriarchal and straight-focused storytelling clichés.
A diverse cast prevents a uniform, homogeneous portrayal of American identity.
The film provides a sophisticated critique of Western institutions and capitalist myths.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks clear, identifiable LGBTQ+ storylines or depictions of same-sex intimacy.
Characters often act as symbolic figures rather than deeply developed, multi-layered individuals.
There is no depiction of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

The zany crew of a New York cable TV station accidentally bounce a signal off the moon, bringing them worldwide attention.

How are these scores produced? →