You are here:

Slither

Name: Slither
Director: Howard Zieff
Released: 1973
Duration: 97 min

Representation Score

3.5/10

Limited

1973

Director

Howard Zieff

Runtime

97 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Slither is a period-specific crime comedy that focuses on social outsiders. The narrative centers around an ex-con, a bandleader, and a quirky drifter, positioning the story on the fringes of mainstream society. While the film does not explicitly highlight diverse identities, its strength lies in its unconventional protagonists. By centering characters who operate outside traditional social hierarchies, the film disrupts standard social structures. Ultimately, the representation is shaped by 1970s genre clichés. It leans toward character-driven eccentricity rather than overt systemic critique or diverse identity-based storytelling.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Slither have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not explicitly address LGBTQ+ identities. While some older films might include subtle hints of LGBTQ+ themes, there is no clear evidence of intentional focus on these identities in this movie.

How does Slither portray gender?

Fair

The portrayal of a devoted wife adheres to traditional gender roles. However, the chaotic and unpredictable nature of the ensemble may challenge conventional ideas of masculinity through humor and incompetence.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Slither?

Limited

There is no indication of a predominantly non-white cast. The film follows typical 1970s casting practices, which often favored homogenous casts.

How does Slither represent religion and culture?

Fair

The focus on drifters and trailer parks suggests a narrative that sidesteps middle-class norms. This approach highlights a more chaotic, anti-establishment cultural viewpoint.

Does Slither include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no evidence within the story to suggest the inclusion of characters with visible or invisible disabilities.

Present on Screen

Focuses on characters operating on the fringes of society.
Challenges traditional social hierarchies through unique character studies.
Explores anti-establishment settings like trailer parks and drifter lifestyles.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight dynamics.
Relies on traditional gender roles, such as the 'doting wife' archetype.
Shows no evidence of racial diversity or non-white casting.

Official Synopsis

While searching for a small fortune of embezzled money, an ex-con, a small-time bandleader, his doting wife and a kooky drifter find themselves being followed. Their chase takes them to trailer camps, bingo halls, laundromats and ultimately, a showdown with a group of unconventional bad guys.

How are these scores produced? →