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Good Luck

Name: Good Luck
Director: Richard LaBrie
Released: 1997
Duration: 92 min

Representation Score

6.2/10

Good

1997

Director

Richard LaBrie

Runtime

92 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Good Luck places characters with physical disabilities at the heart of a high-stakes, actively leading narrative. Instead of portraying impairment as a source of pity, the film uses the characters' frustrations to propel a competitive journey through whitewater rafting. However, the film's impact is limited by a lack of diverse representation. Its narrow focus on a male-centric experience leaves questions about racial, ethnic, and LGBTQ+ representation unanswered. Ultimately, while the film offers a strong and respectful portrayal of neuro-physical diversity, its limited scope prevents a higher overall diversity rating.

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Category Breakdown

Does Good Luck have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include any explicit references to LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. It also does not challenge the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does Good Luck portray gender?

Fair

The story centers around male camaraderie and competition, exploring male vulnerability and emotional loss. However, it does not significantly challenge traditional gender roles or provide substantial roles for female characters.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Good Luck?

Limited

The film does not provide any information about the racial or ethnic makeup of the cast. The narrative seems to focus on a specific demographic without showing multi-ethnic diversity.

How does Good Luck represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film emphasizes personal ability to act and individual struggle, focusing on characters who redefine their lives through unconventional, high-stakes activities such as whitewater rafting.

Does Good Luck include disability representation?

Excellent

The plot centers on characters with physical disabilities, including those using wheelchairs and experiencing visual impairments. The film portrays these conditions as sources of drive and competitive spirit rather than sources of pity.

Present on Screen

Provides actively leading representation for characters with physical disabilities.
Avoids portraying characters with disabilities as objects of pity.
Subverts physical limitations through a physically demanding, competitive plot.

Limited or Absent

Lacks visible representation of racial or ethnic diversity.
Features a narrow, male-centric narrative focus.
Does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth identities.

Official Synopsis

Bernard "Bern" Lemly is fed up with being in a wheelchair and wants more out of life. Meanwhile, former football player Tony "Ole" Olezniak is stewing after recently losing his sight. The men soon realize they can put their frustrated energy to good use by competing in a whitewater rafting race on Oregon's Rouge River. In the process, they discover their disabilities don't have to destroy their dreams.

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