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An Enemy of the People

Name: An Enemy of the People
Director: George Schaefer
Released: 1978
Duration: 107 min

Representation Score

2.5/10

Limited

1978

Director

George Schaefer

Runtime

107 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

This adaptation of Ibsen’s work is demographically traditional, lacking modern multi-layered markers such as LGBTQ+ representation or racial diversity. The cast and social structures reflect a homogeneous European community typical of the period piece. However, the film finds its progressive strength through thematic deconstruction. It challenges established social structures by framing the mercantile class and political institutions as corrupt entities that suppress truth to protect economic interests. Ultimately, the film functions as a critique of the 'compact majority.' While it lacks demographic variety, it provides a sharp narrative attack on systemic authority and the mob mentality used to justify public endangerment.

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Category Breakdown

Does An Enemy of the People have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on civic and scientific conflicts within a traditional setting. There is no presence of non-straight or non-cisgender identities or same-sex intimacy.

How does An Enemy of the People portray gender?

Fair

The story centers on a male-dominated political and medical establishment. However, Petra Stockmann provides intellectual leadership by supporting her father's pursuit of truth.

How racially and ethnically diverse is An Enemy of the People?

Minimal

The cast is largely homogeneous, reflecting the historical European context of the setting. There is no significant racial blending or non-Anglo-Saxon presence.

How does An Enemy of the People represent religion and culture?

Good

The film critiques institutional corruption and the prioritization of capital over welfare. It explores the tension between systemic stability and individual integrity.

Does An Enemy of the People include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no discernible representation of physical, neurodivergent, or sensory disabilities within the primary character arcs or plot.

Present on Screen

The narrative offers a powerful critique of institutional corruption and capitalist priorities.
Petra Stockmann challenges traditional gender roles through her intellectual leadership and support of her father.
The film effectively explores the tension between individual integrity and systemic oppression.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight or non-cisgender gender expressions.
The cast is demographically homogeneous, lacking racial and ethnic diversity.
There is no representation of physical, neurodivergent, or sensory disabilities.

Official Synopsis

A small forest town is trying to promote itself as a place for tourists to come enjoy the therapeutic hot springs and unspoiled nature. Dr. Stockmann, however, makes the inconvenient discovery that the nature around the village is not so unspoiled. In fact, the runoff from the local tanning mill has contaminated the water to a dangerous degree. The town fathers argue that cleaning up the mess would be far too expensive and the publicity would destroy the town's reputation, so therefore news of the pollution should be suppressed. Dr. Stockmann decides to fight to get the word out to the people, but receives as very mixed reaction.

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