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Third Contact

Name: Third Contact
Director: Simon Horrocks
Released: 2013
Duration: 86 min

Representation Score

3.4/10

Limited

2013

Director

Simon Horrocks

Runtime

86 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Third Contact is a character-driven psychological mystery that focuses on individual trauma rather than social or systemic critiques. The narrative structure centers on the internal emotional landscapes of its protagonists within a mid-century setting. The film adheres to the demographic constraints of its period, resulting in a largely homogeneous social framework. It lacks depth in representing multiple aspects of identity and focuses on the mechanics of grief and memory to drive its mystery. Ultimately, the work functions as a conventional thriller that does not aim to disrupt social hierarchies or provide diverse representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does Third Contact have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film centers on the romantic loss experienced by Dr. David Wright. There are no non-binary or LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex relationships portrayed in the story.

How does Third Contact portray gender?

Limited

The narrative emphasizes the male protagonist's psychological journey. Although Erika plays a key role in uncovering the truth, the story primarily revolves around the male protagonist's emotional struggles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Third Contact?

Limited

Set in mid-century London, the film reflects the predominantly white professional class of that time. The cast does not include significant racial diversity or non-white protagonists.

How does Third Contact represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story delves into subjective morality and the fragility of memory. It does not explicitly address Western cultural institutions or promote specific religious or secular ideologies.

Does Third Contact include disability representation?

Limited

The protagonist's mental health issues are presented through personal tragedy and plot tension. The film does not offer an empowered or nuanced portrayal of neurodivergence or disability.

Present on Screen

Explores complex themes of subjective morality and the fragility of human memory.
Offers a nuanced look at the psychological impact of personal loss and grief.

Limited or Absent

Lacks diverse representation of gender, race, and LGBTQ+ identities.
Does not provide an empowered or nuanced depiction of mental health and disability.
Maintains a traditional narrative hierarchy that centers on male-driven psychological crises.

Official Synopsis

Dr David Wright's emotional torment now prevents him from functioning as a therapist. The woman he has loved has vanished from his life 'forever'. Rene Maurer, one of his regular patients, has died - an apparent suicide. Rene's sister, Erika, traveling to London to sort out his things, discovers something curious - his apartment is almost empty. A cup, a spoon, a fork, a knife, frames without pictures, torn photos... One more curiosity - a list of memories. Four dated descriptions of moments in Rene's life. Another patient dies. Another list of memories. There's something strange going on. Something sinister behind these 'suicides'

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