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Evel Knievel

Name: Evel Knievel
Director: John Badham
Released: 2004
Duration: 91 min

Representation Score

2.9/10

Limited

2004

Director

John Badham

Runtime

91 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The film prioritizes historical accuracy and the specific era of its subject over modern diversity. Its narrative structure emphasizes mid-century social norms and demographic uniformity. While it offers a detailed look at physical disabilities and the personal costs of fame, it lacks diverse representation in gender, race, and LGBTQ+ identities.

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Category Breakdown

Does Evel Knievel have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

There are no LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities in the film. It focuses solely on the heterosexual life of a mid-20th-century icon.

How does Evel Knievel portray gender?

Limited

Women in the film are portrayed mainly in relation to the protagonist's marital issues rather than as independent individuals. The story follows a traditional patriarchal structure.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Evel Knievel?

Limited

The film features a predominantly white cast, reflecting the demographics of mid-century American stunt performers. This leads to a homogeneous depiction of the time period.

How does Evel Knievel represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative delves into themes of morality and the conflict between personal freedom and commercial interests. It portrays a dysfunctional family life driven by addiction.

Does Evel Knievel include disability representation?

Fair

The film centers on the physical injuries and chronic pain experienced by the main character, integrating these elements into his identity as a performer.

Present on Screen

Provides a comprehensive view of physical disabilities and chronic pain.
Explores personal morality and the impact of fame in a nuanced manner.
Reflects the historical demographics of mid-century motorcycle subcultures accurately.

Limited or Absent

Does not include LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities.
Depicts women within a traditional patriarchal framework.
Features a homogeneous racial portrayal without diverse representation.

Official Synopsis

Legendary daredevil Robbie "Evel" Knievel (George Eads) is profiled in this action-packed biopic helmed by John Badham. Long before extreme sports became ubiquitous, the hard-living exhibitionist vaulted his motorcycle over steep canyons, crates of venomous snakes and snarling cougars. But as Knievel amassed wealth and world records (along with 35 broken bones), his taste for liquor and ladies equaled his appetite for adventure.

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