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Wizard Mode

Name: Wizard Mode
Director: Nathan Drillot, Jeff Petry
Released: 2016
Duration: 82 min

Representation Score

7.2/10

Good

2016

TV-14

Director

Nathan Drillot, Jeff Petry

Runtime

82 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Wizard Mode focuses on the unique cognitive approach of an autistic individual, showcasing his mastery in competitive pinball. The film challenges the notion of disability as a limitation, presenting it as a specialized skill set. While it offers a nuanced perspective on neurodivergence and skill acquisition, it adheres to a traditional biographical format without engaging broader identity politics or systemic issues. The documentary stands out by presenting autism as a core component of the protagonist's competence, avoiding inspirational clichés and highlighting his specialized abilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does Wizard Mode have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not explicitly address LGBTQ+ identities or include characters with non-straight relationships.

How does Wizard Mode portray gender?

Fair

The story centers on Robert Gagno and follows a traditional biographical format without challenging gender hierarchies or masculinity.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Wizard Mode?

Fair

There is no specific information about the racial or ethnic makeup of the cast, and the representation remains at a basic level without additional diversity.

How does Wizard Mode represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film presents neurodivergence as a specialized skill rather than a limitation, challenging societal norms while upholding traditional values of family support and perseverance.

Does Wizard Mode include disability representation?

Excellent

This documentary highlights an autistic protagonist with significant influence and specialized skills. It avoids portraying autism as inspirational, instead focusing on the unique cognitive abilities that contribute to his success.

Present on Screen

Highlights an autistic protagonist with genuine influence and specialized skills.
Avoids inspirational clichés by emphasizing autism as a fundamental identity component.
Shows how neurodivergence can lead to specialized competence in high-stakes scenarios.

Limited or Absent

Does not include explicit LGBTQ+ or non-straight narratives.
Does not provide evidence of racial or ethnic diversity within the community.
Adheres to a traditional biographical format without challenging gender hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

Mastering classic pinball arcade games requires focus, agility and dedication. Robert Gagno has all these traits. It might explain why he surged from a complete unknown to one of the world's best players in five years. The achievement is even more impressive considering he was diagnosed with autism at age three. His success on the pinball circuit made him part of a community that provided acceptance and encouragement. With his parents' support and determination, Robert has exceeded every expectation placed upon him. As he approaches adulthood, his next challenge is to become more self-sufficient and gain his independence. From high-stakes tournaments across the continent to his day-to-day search for employment, we follow Robert's persistent progression to overcome obstacles and manage the highs of success and lows of falling short. In Wizard Mode, flashing lights and triple combos highlight an outstanding individual who continues to beat the odds and set records.

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