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Highly Strung

Name: Highly Strung
Director: Scott Hicks
Released: 2016
Duration: 90 min

Representation Score

1.8/10

Minimal

2016

Director

Scott Hicks

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Highly Strung offers a focused look at the world of classical music and rare instrument craftsmanship. It emphasizes historical continuity and technical excellence, aligning with traditional Eurocentric norms. Given its subject matter, the film adheres to established cultural demographics, prioritizing the craft of instrument making over contemporary social critiques. Overall, the film caters to a niche subculture, lacking the diverse representation needed to appeal to a broader contemporary audience.

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Category Breakdown

Does Highly Strung have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on the relationship between musicians and their instruments without showing any representation of LGBTQ+ identities.

How does Highly Strung portray gender?

Fair

Gender roles in the film are traditional, emphasizing individual skill and achievement rather than exploring gendered power dynamics or social structures.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Highly Strung?

Limited

The subjects primarily reflect a Western, Eurocentric tradition linked to European instrument history. There is a lack of diverse ethnic perspectives.

How does Highly Strung represent religion and culture?

Fair

The documentary celebrates the traditions of high Western classical culture, focusing on historical preservation and institutional values.

Does Highly Strung include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature narratives about neurodivergence or physical disabilities, concentrating solely on the technical skills needed for elite musical performance.

Present on Screen

Provides an immersive look into the specialized world of rare instrument custodianship.
Features exquisite imagery that highlights the rich history of musical masterpieces.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from more racial and ethnic diversity to reflect a broader range of perspectives.
Does not include representation for neurodivergence, physical disabilities, or LGBTQ+ identities.
Maintains traditional gender roles without exploring or challenging established social hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

"Highly Strung" A story of passion...of obsession...and possession A journey into a rarefied world of elusive tones evoked by horsehair on catgut, of investors lured to spend millions on unique instruments. The deadly sins of lust, jealousy and greed jostle with the purity of philanthropy and sonic perfection. A duel of tension and harmony in a Quartet of youthful virtuosi expanding their skills on a clutch of rare Guadagninis. An exploration of the mystery and the lost, delicate art of constructing these robust masterpieces Exquisite imagery will illuminate a complex history of enduring instruments and their temporary custodians. And then there's the music!

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