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Black Pumpkin

Name: Black Pumpkin
Director: Ryan McGonagle
Released: 2018
Duration: 91 min

Representation Score

0.9/10

Minimal

2018

Director

Ryan McGonagle

Runtime

91 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Black Pumpkin functions as a standard genre piece that prioritizes survivalist tension over identity-driven storytelling. It adheres to established horror conventions without attempting to disrupt social hierarchies or implement multi-layered frameworks. The film relies heavily on traditional Western seasonal folklore, creating a localized, familiar atmosphere but lacking broader cultural or institutional critique. Ultimately, the production lacks measurable diversity across most categories. The focus remains strictly on the cat-and-mouse mechanics of a monster-driven plot.

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Category Breakdown

Does Black Pumpkin have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature any LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities. The story revolves around survival in a traditional horror setting.

How does Black Pumpkin portray gender?

Fair

The story centers on two preteen characters in a survival scenario. Without specific information on gender roles or competencies, the representation remains neutral.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Black Pumpkin?

Minimal

The small-town setting shows no indication of a diverse cast or ethnic metaphors. The narrative follows conventional horror clichés without racial variety.

How does Black Pumpkin represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film operates within the established seasonal folklore of Western Halloween traditions. It does not critique Western institutions or offer significant cultural depth.

Does Black Pumpkin include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no mention of neurodivergence or physical disabilities. No mental health conditions are integrated into the narrative or character development.

Present on Screen

The film effectively uses a familiar Western seasonal framework through its Halloween setting.

Limited or Absent

The narrative lacks LGBTQ+ representation and non-cisgender identities.
There is no visible racial or ethnic diversity within the small-town setting.
The story fails to include characters with disabilities or neurodivergent traits.
The film does not engage with diverse cultural perspectives or institutional critiques.

Official Synopsis

On October 31st, two preteens in a small town accidentally awaken an evil that has lain dormant for decades. They are forced to survive through a terrifying Halloween night of cat-and-mouse, from the monster known as "Bloody Bobby."

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