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Smith!

Name: Smith!
Director: Michael O'Herlihy
Released: 1969
Duration: 102 min

Representation Score

1.9/10

Minimal

1969

Director

Michael O'Herlihy

Runtime

102 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Smith! stands as a transitional mid-century drama that moves away from the one-dimensional racial caricatures common in Westerns. By centering an Indigenous character and exploring themes of racial tolerance, it offers a more nuanced perspective than its contemporaries. However, the film remains bound to the conservative social structures of 1969. The ability to act of Indigenous characters is often dependent on the protection of a white protagonist, limiting true multi-layered autonomy. Ultimately, while the film provides a departure from standard racial antagonism, it lacks the complex representation and gender parity necessary for a higher diversity rating.

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Category Breakdown

Does Smith! have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature any visible LGBTQ+ characters or identities that challenge heterosexuality. There is no depiction of same-sex relationships or critiques of heterosexual norms.

How does Smith! portray gender?

Limited

The film maintains traditional gender roles, with male characters holding positions of authority and influence. Female characters are largely absent from the storyline and do not have equal intellectual standing compared to the male characters.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Smith!?

Fair

The film breaks away from typical Western stereotypes by focusing on an Indigenous character named Jimmyboy. Despite a predominantly white cast, the narrative delves into themes of racial tolerance through the protagonist's background.

How does Smith! represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story highlights conflicts between institutional authority and local traditions. It portrays resistance to bureaucratic systems through the lens of traditional community dynamics.

Does Smith! include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not depict any physical or cognitive disabilities.

Present on Screen

Breaks away from typical Western stereotypes by centering an Indigenous character with significant narrative importance.
Explores themes of racial tolerance and cultural connections through the protagonist's history.
Avoids harmful, one-dimensional racial caricatures common in the genre.

Limited or Absent

Lacks female characters with significant influence or intellectual equality in the plot.
Indigenous characters' ability to act is often tied to the protection of white characters.
Does not include any LGBTQ+ representation or non-straight-centered identities.

Official Synopsis

When the Indian Jimmyboy is accused of murder of a white man, he flees onto the ranch of Smith, who's well known for his tolerance for Indians, since he was raised by the old Indian Antoine. Smith helps Jimmyboy against the mean Sheriff and promises to speak for him in court, thus persuading him to surrender himself to the police.

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