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Hysteria

Name: Hysteria
Director: Freddie Francis
Released: 1965
Duration: 85 min

Representation Score

2.7/10

Limited

1965

Director

Freddie Francis

Runtime

85 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Hysteria is a traditional period comedy that prioritizes genre-based entertainment over exploring diverse identities. It operates within the established social and cinematic norms of 1965, focusing on the tension between superstition and reason. The film adheres to conservative mid-century British filmmaking standards. It does not aim to disrupt conventional expectations about race, gender, or social power dynamics, resulting in a narrative that reinforces rather than challenges traditional hierarchies.

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Category Breakdown

Does Hysteria have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film follows a typical romantic storyline from the 1960s. It doesn't include non-binary gender identities or narratives that challenge the assumption that everyone is straight.

How does Hysteria portray gender?

Limited

Gender roles in the film reflect the social hierarchy of the time. Female characters are often portrayed through their connection to the occult rather than as leaders in challenging societal norms.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Hysteria?

Minimal

Set in Victorian England, the cast is mostly white. The story doesn't explore significant racial or ethnic diversity or the overlapping aspects of different identities.

How does Hysteria represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story examines the tension between rational thinking and spirituality. However, it uses these elements as a light-hearted backdrop without critiquing Western institutions.

Does Hysteria include disability representation?

Limited

Characters with visible or invisible disabilities are not shown taking control of their lives. The plot centers on mystery and humor rather than addressing neurodiversity or physical disabilities.

Present on Screen

The film effectively uses the tension between rationalism and the spiritualist movement as a thematic backdrop.
Witty conversations between genders provide a lighthearted comedy of manners style.

Limited or Absent

The narrative lacks intentionality in disrupting conventional social hierarchies or exploring diverse identities.
The cast remains predominantly white, reflecting the demographic constraints of its historical setting.
Female characters are framed through period fascinations with the occult rather than as independent agents.

Official Synopsis

An American wakes in an English hospital, unable to remember anything prior to a recent car accident. With only a magazine photograph as a guide, and an unknown benefactor, he attempts to unravel what increasingly looks like a bizarre murder.

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