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An Ordinary Man

An Ordinary Man

Representation Score

6.3/10

Good

2017

R

Director

Brad Silberling

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

An Ordinary Man is a powerful critique of systemic bias and the judicial landscape. By focusing on a Black protagonist, the film effectively uses racial identity to challenge the presumption of innocence and expose how media-driven vigilantism affects justice. However, the film's narrow focus results in significant gaps in other areas. The narrative is heavily centered on a male protagonist, offering little room for female characters or diverse gendered perspectives. Additionally, there is no representation of LGBTQ+ or disability issues.

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Category Breakdown

Does An Ordinary Man have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or storylines that go beyond assuming everyone is straight or cisgender. The narrative focuses solely on heterosexual relationships and legal issues.

How does An Ordinary Man portray gender?

Fair

The story revolves around a male protagonist and his legal battle, with little emphasis on female characters or challenging traditional gender roles. Female characters have limited influence on the plot.

How racially and ethnically diverse is An Ordinary Man?

Excellent

The film features Laurence Fishburne, allowing for a detailed exploration of how racial identity intersects with the American legal system. It highlights how racialized perceptions can fuel media frenzies.

How does An Ordinary Man represent religion and culture?

Good

The film critiques Western institutions and the 'court of public opinion.' It portrays state authority and media as potentially corrupt or unreliable entities.

Does An Ordinary Man include disability representation?

Limited

There is no meaningful depiction of physical, neurodivergent, or mental health disabilities that significantly impact the narrative or provide character's ability to drive the story.

Present on Screen

  • Strong racial representation through a prominent Black lead navigating systemic legal biases.
  • Sophisticated critique of Western judicial institutions and the fallibility of state authority.
  • Effective exploration of how media-driven public opinion impacts the administration of justice.

Limited or Absent

  • Limited women's ability to drive the story or subversion of traditional gendered power dynamics.
  • No LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight storylines.
  • No significant depiction of physical, neurodivergent, or mental health disabilities.

Official Synopsis

A war criminal in hiding forms a relationship with his only connection to the outside world - his maid.

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