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The Cisco Kid

Name: The Cisco Kid
Director: Irving Cummings
Released: 1931
Duration: 60 min

Representation Score

1.3/10

Minimal

1931

Director

Irving Cummings

Runtime

60 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Cisco Kid (1931) is a product of its time, relying heavily on established Western archetypes that lack depth in reflecting multiple aspects of identity. The film's main issue lies in its casting and character roles, which reinforce traditional social hierarchies rather than challenging them. While the film introduces a morally complex theme by framing a criminal outlaw as a heroic figure, this complexity is weakened by a lack of cultural authenticity due to the whitewashing of the lead role.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Cisco Kid have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or representations of non-straight relationships. It sticks closely to the social norms of the early 1930s.

How does The Cisco Kid portray gender?

Limited

Female characters such as Sally Benton mainly serve as damsels in distress. They act as catalysts for the male lead's heroism rather than having independent roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Cisco Kid?

Limited

The film includes significant whitewashing by casting white actor Charles Bickford in the Mexican-rooted role of the Cisco Kid. This choice emphasizes Anglo-centric heroism over ethnic authenticity.

How does The Cisco Kid represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative explores moral relativism through a 'noble outlaw' archetype. While it disrupts legal binaries, it fails to provide a deeper critique of Western institutions.

Does The Cisco Kid include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no depictions of visible or invisible disabilities. Characters are defined solely by the physical abilities needed for Western action.

Present on Screen

The film introduces moral complexity by framing a criminal outlaw as a heroic figure driven by noble intentions.

Limited or Absent

The casting of a white actor in a Mexican role leads to significant ethnic whitewashing.
Female characters lack ability to act, functioning mostly as reactive figures needing protection.
The narrative lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and individuals with disabilities.

Official Synopsis

The Cisco Kid rides again! This time, he robs a bank to save pretty widow Sally Benton and her ranch. After developing a good relationship with Sally’s children, he risks life and limb in order to save her little one.

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