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Split Second

Name: Split Second
Director: Dick Powell
Released: 1953
Duration: 85 min

Representation Score

0.5/10

Minimal

1953

Director

Dick Powell

Runtime

85 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Split Second is a conventional 1950s crime thriller that aligns with the norms of its time. The narrative relies on well-known genre clichés and mid-century social hierarchies without trying to challenge them. The film focuses on traditional Western archetypes, reinforcing standard racial, gender, and social dynamics typical of the period's cinematic landscape. Ultimately, the work centers on a classic noir-style plot involving escaped convicts and nuclear testing, offering little in the way of social or demographic diversity.

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Category Breakdown

Does Split Second have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or narratives, sticking closely to the straight-centered standards of the 1950s.

How does Split Second portray gender?

Limited

Male characters dominate the action and investigative plot, upholding traditional hierarchies. Female characters are limited to supporting roles without much influence.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Split Second?

Minimal

The cast reflects the demographic uniformity of mid-century American cinema. There is no indication of a diverse or non-Anglo-Saxon majority.

How does Split Second represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story follows a traditional Western framework centered on legal justice. It does not question established social or religious institutions.

Does Split Second include disability representation?

Minimal

No visible or invisible disabilities are present in the characters. All characters have standard physical and neurotypical roles.

Present on Screen

The film adheres to the established narrative structures of the mid-century crime thriller genre.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth narratives.
Gender roles are highly traditional, with female characters lacking significant influence.
The cast lacks racial and ethnic diversity, reflecting a homogeneous demographic.
There is no depiction of characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Escaped convicts hold hostages in a ghost town targeted for a nuclear bomb test.

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