You are here:

A Shock to the System

A Shock to the System

Representation Score

2.6/10

Limited

1990

R

Director

Jan Egleson

Runtime

91 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

A Shock to the System is a character-driven exploration of social alienation and psychological breakdown. While it offers a sophisticated look at moral relativism and the deconstruction of social order, it remains confined to a narrow social framework. The film centers on the individualistic journey of its male protagonist. This focus limits the film's multi-layered breadth, making the social landscape feel homogeneous and unrepresentative. Ultimately, the work serves as a study of obsession rather than a vehicle for identity-based representation or systemic critique.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does A Shock to the System have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not engage with LGBTQ perspectives or non-straight identities. It focuses solely on heterosexual relationships.

How does A Shock to the System portray gender?

Limited

The power dynamics revolve around a male protagonist's psychological decline. Female characters mainly serve as catalysts for his actions rather than having independent roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is A Shock to the System?

Minimal

The film features a homogeneous cast with little diversity. It reflects a narrow social environment typical of its time period.

How does A Shock to the System represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film explores moral relativism by questioning traditional justice concepts. It focuses on individual psychological issues rather than broader systemic critiques.

Does A Shock to the System include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no representation of physical or neurodivergent disabilities. Psychological instability is portrayed as a character study of obsession rather than a nuanced depiction of mental health.

Present on Screen

  • Offers a sophisticated exploration of moral relativism.
  • Provides a deep character study regarding the deconstruction of social order.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks multi-layered casting and diverse social landscapes.
  • Female characters lack independent roles and primarily act as plot catalysts.
  • Fails to provide nuanced or agentic portrayals of mental health conditions.

Official Synopsis

When experienced advertising executive Graham Marshall loses out on a promotion to a young man, he goes down in a path of vengeance.

How are these scores produced? →

Where to Watch

Rate this Movie

No rating selected
Use arrow keys to select a rating from 1 to 5 stars
Optional text review, maximum 2000 characters
Tip: Wrap spoilers with ||double pipes|| to hide them
0/2000 characters
You must be signed in to submit a rating

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!

Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.