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Groundswell

Name: Groundswell
Director: Lee Friedlander
Released: 2022
Duration: 84 min

Representation Score

3.9/10

Limited

2022

TV-G

Director

Lee Friedlander

Runtime

84 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Groundswell functions as a conventional genre piece that adheres to established cinematic norms. While the film provides a significant role for Emma, it lacks the complexity required for a higher diversity score. The story relies on standard romantic structures and escapist clichés. It focuses on individual emotional healing rather than challenging systemic hierarchies or exploring diverse identity-driven narratives. Ultimately, the film operates within safe, predictable boundaries. It lacks the specific markers of cultural subversion or identity-driven depth needed to move beyond a moderate diversity score.

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Category Breakdown

Does Groundswell have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film centers around a romantic relationship between Emma and Ben. There is no indication of LGBTQ+ identities or perspectives that question the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does Groundswell portray gender?

Fair

Emma is the main character who navigates professional and personal challenges. However, the story follows a traditional healing-through-romance arc that leans into conventional gendered clichés.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Groundswell?

Fair

Set in Hawaii, the film has potential for cultural diversity. However, the character descriptions do not provide specific ethnic backgrounds, missing opportunities for racial depth.

How does Groundswell represent religion and culture?

Limited

The narrative uses an escapist travel cliché common in romance. It emphasizes personal emotional resolution over any meaningful exploration of cultural or systemic issues.

Does Groundswell include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no visible or invisible disabilities depicted or mentioned in the character arcs of Emma or Ben.

Present on Screen

The film provides a central platform for Emma to drive the story through her professional and personal journey.

Limited or Absent

The narrative lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or perspectives that question the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.
Character descriptions fail to specify ethnic backgrounds, missing opportunities for racial depth.
The plot relies on traditional romantic clichés rather than exploring systemic or cultural complexities.

Official Synopsis

On the heels of a professional and personal setback, Atlanta chef Emma travels to Hawaii, where she meets Ben, a reclusive surf instructor.

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