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Higher Power

Name: Higher Power
Director: Matthew Charles Santoro
Released: 2018
Duration: 95 min

Representation Score

3.2/10

Limited

2018

Director

Matthew Charles Santoro

Runtime

95 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Higher Power operates as a conventional science fiction thriller that relies heavily on established genre archetypes. The narrative structure prioritizes a traditional hero's journey, centering on male control over the story and a standard family unit to drive the plot. While the casting shows some effort toward ethnic diversity through actors like Jade Tailor, these identities do not serve as thematic pillars. The film follows a predictable 'man against the system' trajectory rather than challenging social hierarchies. Ultimately, the production lacks the intentionality needed to challenge systemic norms. It functions as a standard genre piece that favors traditionalist morality over progressive or storytelling that reflects multiple aspects of identity.

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Category Breakdown

Does Higher Power have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not include explicit LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. The focus on Joseph Steadman and his family highlights a traditional family structure without acknowledging non-cisgender identities.

How does Higher Power portray gender?

Fair

The story centers on a male protagonist's role in a classic hero's journey. While female characters are present, the plot follows typical masculine clichés.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Higher Power?

Fair

The cast includes diverse actors such as Jade Tailor and Winston James Francis. However, racial identity does not play a central role in the narrative's plot.

How does Higher Power represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film adheres to Western thriller conventions and heroic morality. It lacks any significant critique of Western institutions or cultural relativism.

Does Higher Power include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with disabilities portrayed with significant roles. The term 'test subject' seems to be used as a sci-fi cliché rather than addressing disability issues.

Present on Screen

The cast features a diverse range of actors, including Jade Tailor and Winston James Francis.
The film utilizes a broad ensemble to support its science fiction framework.

Limited or Absent

The narrative relies on traditional male-driven hero archetypes rather than subverting gender hierarchies.
The plot lacks meaningful exploration of multi-layered identities or non-traditional familial structures.
The story follows standard Western clichés without offering deeper cultural or institutional critiques.

Official Synopsis

When the Universe decides what it wants, it's pointless to resist. With his family's life at stake, Joseph Steadman finds himself the unwilling test subject of a maniacal scientist in a battle that could save the world – or destroy it.

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