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The Power

Name: The Power
Director: Jeffrey Obrow, Stephen Carpenter
Released: 1984
Duration: 84 min

Representation Score

2.2/10

Limited

1984

Director

Jeffrey Obrow, Stephen Carpenter

Runtime

84 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Power (1984) functions as a conventional horror film that adheres to established frameworks of its time. The narrative prioritizes supernatural tension over the deconstruction of social hierarchies or the inclusion of diverse identities. While the film incorporates Aztec mythology, it uses these cultural elements primarily as supernatural clichés, which can risk framing non-Western artifacts through a lens of 'otherness' rather than providing nuanced cultural exploration. Ultimately, the film lacks the intentionality required to disrupt traditional cinematic norms, focusing instead on a singular male protagonist and a malevolent entity.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Power have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film follows traditional horror clichés common to the mid-1980s, focusing on supernatural themes without depicting non-cisgender gender identities or same-sex relationships.

How does The Power portray gender?

Limited

The story centers on a male protagonist's struggle with possession, relying on traditional masculine archetypes without challenging gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Power?

Fair

Aztec mythology is used as a central plot device, but the representation focuses more on the doll itself rather than the culture it symbolizes.

How does The Power represent religion and culture?

Limited

The plot follows a conventional struggle between an individual and a malevolent force, framing non-Western artifacts as inherently dangerous and foreign.

Does The Power include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no information available regarding the depiction of neurodivergence or physical disabilities within the film's narrative.

Present on Screen

Incorporates non-Western Aztec mythology as a central plot element.

Limited or Absent

Avoid using cultural artifacts merely as simplified supernatural clichés.
Increase representation of diverse gender identities and sexual orientations.
Provide more ability to act to non-Western cultures rather than centering on 'otherness'.

Official Synopsis

A man comes into possession of an ancient Aztec doll. However, the doll is possessed by an evil spirit, which takes over his body.

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