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Split

Name: Split
Director: Roger Lambert
Released: 1974
Duration: 54 min

Representation Score

6.6/10

Good

1974

Director

Roger Lambert

Runtime

54 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Split (1974) is a deep character study that focuses on theme rather than demographic diversity. It challenges social norms and provides an understanding of a protagonist facing a non-traditional reality. While the film does not have much representation of race or sexual orientation, it excels in giving the protagonist's perceived mental state ability to act rather than just clinical judgment. The film's progressive elements lie in its skeptical view of 'the system' and its exploration of subjective reality.

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Category Breakdown

Does Split have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not show any LGBTQ+ relationships or identities. The story focuses on a family breaking apart and does not include any non-straight relationships.

How does Split portray gender?

Fair

The story explores a mother's independence as she searches for a new partner after her husband leaves. However, the female characters mainly serve as catalysts for the main character's journey.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Split?

Limited

The cast appears to be made up of actors who fit the traditional expectations for the roles, without much diversity. There are no racial metaphors or diverse representations in the story.

How does Split represent religion and culture?

Good

The film looks at societal norms through the eyes of a child who questions the rules of Earth. It uses a non-human perspective to explore moral questions and social issues.

Does Split include disability representation?

Good

Mark's condition is described as a telepathic ability rather than a medical issue. His teacher supports him, which challenges the usual dismissive attitudes towards such conditions.

Present on Screen

Gives the protagonist a sense of control and validation through a supportive teacher, challenging stereotypes about neurodivergence.
Examines the traditional roles within a family and explores a woman's independence through her choices.
Explores complex themes of moral relativism and questioning societal norms.

Limited or Absent

Does not include any visible LGBTQ+ identities or relationships.
Uses a cast that fits traditional expectations without much racial or ethnic diversity.
Female characters play more of a supporting role rather than being fully independent agents.

Official Synopsis

When his father runs off and his mother hooks up with a mustachioed new beau, eleven-year-old Mark becomes convinced that an uninvited talkative space alien, going by the name "Split," has taken up telepathic residence in his mind, and is leading him to question the norms of planet Earth. Only one teacher is willing to entertain the possibility that Mark just might be telling the truth.

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