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808

Name: 808
Director: Alex Dunn
Released: 2015
Duration: 94 min

Representation Score

6.1/10

Good

2015

Director

Alex Dunn

Runtime

94 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

808 is a documentary that functions as a study of cultural ability to act. Its primary strength is centering the technological tools that empowered underrepresented musical communities to reshape the global sonic landscape. While the thematic focus suggests high multi-layered significance, the film lacks specific details regarding individual character arcs for gender or LGBTQ+ representation. The narrative remains tied to the broader history of musical subcultures.

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Category Breakdown

Does 808 have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film explores modern dance culture, an environment where LGBTQ+ expression is historically prevalent. However, specific LGBTQ+ character arcs or individual narratives are not explicitly detailed.

How does 808 portray gender?

Fair

The documentary examines the technical history of an instrument within traditionally male-dominated genres. It offers a framework to analyze female and non-binary roles within dance and electronic music production.

How racially and ethnically diverse is 808?

Excellent

The narrative centers on hip hop, a genre rooted in Black ability to act and innovation. It prioritizes the cultural contributions of non-Anglo-Saxon communities and their systemic influence on global music.

How does 808 represent religion and culture?

Excellent

By tracing the 808's impact on grassroots movements, the film celebrates subcultural, anti-establishment musical traditions. It highlights the intersection of technology and communal, non-traditional social structures.

Does 808 include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no specific evidence regarding the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities within the film's subject matter.

Present on Screen

Strong emphasis on Black ability to act and the cultural innovation of hip hop.
Challenges traditional Western musical hierarchies through the lens of rhythmic innovation.
Celebrates grassroots, anti-establishment musical movements and subcultures.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit detail regarding individual LGBTQ+ narratives or character arcs.
Provides limited evidence of gender hierarchy subversion within the production history.
No visible representation or focus on disability within the provided context.

Official Synopsis

The inspiring story of the Roland TR808, from the creation of Planet Rock which established it as a dynamic modern instrument, to how it defined hip hop and modern dance culture, through to its continued use today.

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