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The Clown

Name: The Clown
Director: A.W. Sandberg
Released: 1917
Duration: 62 min

Representation Score

2.7/10

Limited

1917

Director

A.W. Sandberg

Runtime

62 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Clown is a period-typical drama that adheres to the conventional storytelling formulas of the silent era. It focuses on individual ambition and romantic entanglements rather than complex social issues. The narrative follows a traditional 'rise and fall' arc, centering on a male protagonist's pursuit of fame. This structure emphasizes personal melodrama over broader social critiques. Ultimately, the film serves as a reflection of early 20th-century European social norms, lacking the diverse perspectives or systemic critiques found in modern cinema.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Clown have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The story focuses on a heterosexual relationship between Joe Higgins and his fiancée, Daisy. There are no characters with non-traditional gender identities or narratives that challenge the assumption that everyone is straight.

How does The Clown portray gender?

Fair

The plot revolves around the male protagonist's career goals. While Daisy is a key character, her role is defined by her relationship to Joe and her family ties.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Clown?

Limited

The film reflects the homogeneous social structures typical of early 20th-century Europe. There are no characters from non-white backgrounds.

How does The Clown represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative explores the tension between rural life and the excitement of the big city. It uses a melodramatic lens to examine fame and traditional family values.

Does The Clown include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no mention of characters with visible or invisible disabilities.

Present on Screen

Explores the contrast between provincial stability and the allure of urban fame.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of non-traditional gender identities or diverse racial backgrounds.
Female characters are primarily defined by their roles in domestic or romantic relationships with the male lead.
Does not provide a systemic critique of social institutions or hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

The circus clown Joe Higgins is scouted by a world famous artist agent, who promises him fame and fortune. Joe takes the offer on one condition: His fiancèe Daisy and her parents are coming with him. Soon, Joe finds himself performing on the biggest stages in the city, enthralling his audience night after night. But the glamorous life in the big city is no fairy tale after all.

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