You are here:

The Mighty

Name: The Mighty
Director: Peter Chelsom
Released: 1998
Duration: 100 min

Representation Score

3.7/10

Limited

1998

PG-13

Director

Peter Chelsom

Runtime

100 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The Mighty is a character-driven drama that excels in its portrayal of characters with physical disabilities. By giving these characters a significant role in driving the story, the film avoids the common pitfall of 'inspiration porn' and presents them as active drivers of the narrative. However, the film's scope is limited when it comes to broader identity politics. It lacks LGBTQ+ representation and offers a relatively homogeneous, Anglo-centric view of suburban America. The social focus remains centered on the intersection of class and physical ability. Ultimately, while the film provides a nuanced depiction of physical disabilities, it does not engage with systemic critiques or diverse racial and gender perspectives.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The Mighty have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or explore non-straight relationships. The story revolves around a platonic friendship between two male friends.

How does The Mighty portray gender?

Fair

The narrative adheres to traditional gender roles, emphasizing male-dominated social dynamics. Female characters play supporting roles that do not challenge existing gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Mighty?

Limited

Set in a predominantly white suburban setting, the film does not feature a diverse cast. Social dynamics focus on class and ability rather than racial diversity.

How does The Mighty represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story follows typical Western themes of personal resilience and community bonds. It does not critique Western institutions or social orders but instead upholds traditional values.

Does The Mighty include disability representation?

Excellent

The film highlights characters with Morquio syndrome and cerebral palsy, who play a significant role in driving the story and drive the plot through their intellect rather than being objects of pity.

Present on Screen

Offers a nuanced, agentic portrayal of characters with physical disabilities.
Avoids 'inspiration porn' by making protagonists active drivers of the plot.
Highlights intellectual ability to act and collaborative problem-solving.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight relationships.
Features a homogeneous cast that lacks racial and ethnic diversity.
Female characters are relegated to secondary roles without challenging gender hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

Kevin, an intelligent guy helps out Maxwell to improve his reading skills. In return, Kevin wants Maxwell to take him out places since he is not authorized to go out. Being the social outcasts of the town, Kevin and Maxwell come to realize that they are similar to each other and accept that they are "freaks" and nothing will stop them.

How are these scores produced? →