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Kings of the Turf

Name: Kings of the Turf
Director: Del Frazier
Released: 1941
Duration: 10 min

Representation Score

1.2/10

Minimal

1941

Approved

Director

Del Frazier

Runtime

10 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Kings of the Turf is a straightforward documentary focused on the techniques and practices involved in preparing horses for harness racing. Since the film centers solely on the animals, it does not delve into human-driven narratives or social issues. Instead, it highlights the specific skills and routines used in the sport. The film reflects the demographics and social norms of 1941 America, presenting a slice of mid-century life without challenging or expanding upon those norms. Its narrow focus on the training of a Standardbred horse limits its scope for exploring diverse human experiences.

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Category Breakdown

Does Kings of the Turf have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses entirely on the training of a Standardbred horse for harness racing. There are no human character arcs or romantic subplots to explore LGBTQ+ themes.

How does Kings of the Turf portray gender?

Limited

The documentary centers on the technical aspects of equine training. It lacks evidence of non-traditional gender roles or the subversion of historical gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Kings of the Turf?

Limited

The film likely reflects the homogeneous social structures of the 1941 American sporting industry. No diverse cast or race-bent casting is present in the footage.

How does Kings of the Turf represent religion and culture?

Limited

This piece serves as a celebration of Western harness racing traditions. It functions as an observational study of mid-century Americana rather than a cultural critique.

Does Kings of the Turf include disability representation?

Minimal

The narrative is dedicated to the physical capabilities of a horse. There is no portrayal of human characters with visible or invisible disabilities.

Present on Screen

Offers a detailed, instructional perspective on harness racing training techniques.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from incorporating human character development and addressing social themes.
Reflects the homogeneous social structures of its time without providing diverse viewpoints.

Official Synopsis

Kings of the Turf is a 1941 American short documentary film about horse racing, directed by Del Frazier. This entry in The Sports Parade series shows us how Mortimer, a Standardbred horse, is trained for harness racing. It was nominated for an Academy Award at the 14th Academy Awards for Best Short Subject.

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