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Under the Volcano

Name: Under the Volcano
Director: Gracie Otto
Released: 2021
Duration: 96 min

Representation Score

3.5/10

Limited

2021

Director

Gracie Otto

Runtime

96 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The documentary serves as a historical retrospective that shifts the focus of musical greatness away from metropolitan Western centers toward the localized environment of Montserrat. It offers a moderate departure from standard Western-centric music histories by highlighting how geography influences the creative process. While the film avoids overt engagement with identity politics or the deconstruction of social hierarchies, it provides a nuanced look at cultural exchange. The narrative structure invites viewers to consider the impact of a Western institution thriving within a Caribbean context. Ultimately, the documentary studies the intersection of environment and industry, though it remains anchored in a traditional historical framework.

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Category Breakdown

Does Under the Volcano have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary focuses on the professional and environmental history of AIR Studios. There are no LGBTQ+ characters or narratives that critique the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does Under the Volcano portray gender?

Fair

The film highlights the technical and administrative legacy of George Martin. It does not provide specific evidence of women playing a significant role in driving the creative evolution of the studio.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Under the Volcano?

Fair

By focusing on Montserrat, the film challenges purely Eurocentric musical histories. However, the balance between local Montserratian voices and Western musical icons is not entirely clear.

How does Under the Volcano represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film examines the intersection of Western musical capitalism and a post-colonial Caribbean setting. It explores the complexities of cultural exchange in a globalized industry.

Does Under the Volcano include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no documented evidence regarding the inclusion of subjects with visible or invisible disabilities within the primary subject matter.

Present on Screen

Challenges purely Eurocentric musical narratives by centering the story on a Caribbean island.
Highlights the significant impact of geography and environment on the creative process.
Offers a nuanced look at the intersection of Western capitalism and post-colonial settings.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth gender narratives.
Provides limited evidence of women playing a significant role in driving the technical or creative evolution of the studio.
Uncertainty regarding the prominence and ability to act afforded to local Montserratian voices.

Official Synopsis

The story of George Martin’s AIR Studios Montserrat and the island that changed music forever.

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