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Apocalypse How

Name: Apocalypse How
Released: 2008
Duration: 65 min

Representation Score

1.8/10

Minimal

2008

PG-13

Runtime

65 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Apocalypse How is a scientific survey of extinction events rather than a character-driven drama. Because the film prioritizes geological and biological data, it lacks the interpersonal depth necessary for nuanced social representation. The documentary remains neutral rather than progressive. It focuses on the survival of the human species as a whole, which inherently limits the capacity for storytelling that reflects multiple aspects of identity or identity-based development. While the inclusion of Mayan prophecy provides a brief departure from Western-centric timelines, the film's primary objective is the exploration of global systemic vulnerabilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does Apocalypse How have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary focuses on planetary and biological phenomena. There are no character-driven narratives or interpersonal relationships to depict LGBTQ+ identities.

How does Apocalypse How portray gender?

Limited

The narrative centers on macro-scale disasters like asteroids and plagues. It lacks the character's ability to drive the story required to explore or subvert gender dynamics.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Apocalypse How?

Fair

The film uses the Mayan calendar to introduce non-Western cosmological frameworks. However, it does not center characters of color with high ability to act.

How does Apocalypse How represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film examines systemic fragility and the potential collapse of human institutions. It maintains a standard scientific tone rather than a radicalized narrative.

Does Apocalypse How include disability representation?

Minimal

The documentary does not feature individual human experiences or character arcs. Consequently, there is no evidence regarding the portrayal of disabilities.

Present on Screen

Incorporates non-Western cosmological frameworks through the use of the Mayan calendar.
Deconstructs the idea of inevitable Western or capitalist advancement by framing progress through potential extinction.

Limited or Absent

Lacks character's ability to drive the story and interpersonal narratives to explore gender or LGBTQ+ identities.
Does not center characters of color, focusing instead on universal scientific threats.
Provides no representation of neurodivergence or physical disabilities due to its focus on macro-scale disasters.

Official Synopsis

The Mayan calendar predicts that the world will end in 2012, and many believe it's true. This Emmy-nominated Discovery Channel documentary illustrates the variety of ways the apocalypse could arrive in. True believers will learn how volcanic eruption, widespread plague, deadly asteroids, neighboring stars, and nuclear and biological weapons could each bring about the extinction of humankind.

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