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Scanners II: The New Order

Name: Scanners II: The New Order
Director: Christian Duguay
Released: 1991
Duration: 104 min

Representation Score

4.0/10

Fair

1991

Director

Christian Duguay

Runtime

104 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Scanners II: The New Order operates as a conventional genre piece, prioritizing established science fiction clichés over challenging social hierarchies. The narrative structure remains rooted in traditional storytelling methods. The film explores institutional oppression using a common dystopian cliché rather than a critical examination of systemic issues. It focuses on the kinetic elements of the 'Scanner' phenomenon rather than the social implications of its characters' identities. Overall, the film adheres to the standard parameters of early 90s action-horror, offering little in the way of progressive representation or diverse character's ability to drive the story.

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Category Breakdown

Does Scanners II: The New Order have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any visible LGBTQ+ characters or storylines. It follows the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender, which is typical for early 90s action-horror films.

How does Scanners II: The New Order portray gender?

Limited

Gender roles in the film follow traditional hierarchies common in action thrillers. Female characters play minor roles compared to their male counterparts and lack significant control over the story.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Scanners II: The New Order?

Limited

The film focuses on biological phenomena without addressing racial diversity. There is no evidence of diverse casting or non-Anglo-Saxon majority ensembles.

How does Scanners II: The New Order represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story uses a standard 'individual versus state' motif. It does not critically examine Western capitalism, religion, or patriotism in a progressive manner.

Does Scanners II: The New Order include disability representation?

Fair

Telepathic abilities are used as a metaphor for neurodivergence but are framed through horror. Characters are portrayed as biological anomalies to be controlled rather than nuanced individuals.

Present on Screen

Explores themes of individual resistance against centralized, oppressive institutions.

Limited or Absent

Lacks meaningful representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender storylines.
Does not provide female characters with significant intellectual or physical ability to act.
Misses opportunities for diverse, non-Anglo-Saxon casting within the urban setting.
Uses neurodivergent metaphors as dangerous plot devices rather than nuanced lived experiences.

Official Synopsis

A breed of humans with dangerously powerful telepathic abilities -- the scanners -- are being recruited by a corrupt police commander, John Forrester, in his crusade to take over the city.

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