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Unnatural Causes

Name: Unnatural Causes
Director: Lamont Johnson
Released: 1986
Duration: 91 min

Representation Score

4.2/10

Fair

1986

Not Rated

Director

Lamont Johnson

Runtime

91 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Unnatural Causes serves as a critique of institutional opacity rather than an exploration of social identity hierarchies. It replaces the traditional heroic veteran archetype with a narrative of bodily vulnerability and systemic betrayal. The film's strength lies in its anti-authoritarian framework and its examination of how bureaucratic indifference affects personal suffering. It avoids treating chronic illness as mere inspiration, focusing instead on the pursuit of justice. However, the film lacks breadth in addressing racial and sexual orientation diversity. It adheres to the more homogeneous storytelling styles of its era.

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Category Breakdown

Does Unnatural Causes have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or stories. The narrative revolves around the relationship between a veteran and a bureaucratic system.

How does Unnatural Causes portray gender?

Fair

Maude DeVictor, a VA counselor, plays a significant role in driving the story with her intellect and professionalism. She navigates the bureaucratic maze to help the protagonist.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Unnatural Causes?

Limited

The narrative focuses on the Vietnam veteran experience without featuring a diverse cast. It follows traditional, homogeneous dramatic structures common in mid-80s television.

How does Unnatural Causes represent religion and culture?

Good

The film critiques Western institutional integrity with a skeptical view of state authority and traditional patriotism regarding government cover-ups.

Does Unnatural Causes include disability representation?

Good

Physical illness is central to the plot rather than a secondary device. The protagonist maintains control while dealing with the socio-political implications of his cancer.

Present on Screen

Offers a nuanced look at the intersection of physical disability and institutional corruption.
Features a female professional with significant intellectual influence and systemic knowledge.
Challenges the sanctity of state institutions through a strong anti-authoritarian framework.

Limited or Absent

Lacks significant breadth in addressing racial and sexual orientation diversity.
Follows traditional, homogeneous dramatic structures typical of mid-80s television productions.

Official Synopsis

Frank Coleman is a Vietnam veteran dying from cancer brought on by exposure to the defoliant chemical Agent Orange which he turns to Maude DeVictor, a Veterans Administration benefits counselor who teams up with Coleman to fight a lopsided batted against the bureaucratic system for its cover up of the possible dangers of Agent Orange.

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