You are here:

All American Drawback

Name: All American Drawback
Director: Lloyd French
Released: 1935
Duration: 11 min

Representation Score

2.7/10

Limited

1935

Approved

Director

Lloyd French

Runtime

11 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

All American Drawback is shaped by the social and narrative norms of 1935. The film emphasizes traditional hierarchies centered on male authority figures and athletic competition. The representation is largely homogeneous, focusing on Western institutional values and heterosexual relationships. multi-layered complexity and diverse perspectives are notably absent. Additionally, the film uses outdated comedic clichés related to intelligence. By portraying academic struggles as a character flaw, it reinforces stereotypes rather than offering nuanced characterization.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does All American Drawback have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film doesn't include any characters with non-binary or LGBTQ+ identities. It focuses on a straight couple, following the conventional relationship norms of the time.

How does All American Drawback portray gender?

Limited

The story revolves around a male-dominated structure with deans, coaches, and athletes. Despite Joan's presence, she remains secondary to the main male characters.

How racially and ethnically diverse is All American Drawback?

Minimal

The setting suggests a predominantly white student body. The film seems to reflect the era's preference for Anglo-Saxon culture without showing a diverse cast.

How does All American Drawback represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story unfolds within traditional Western institutions like colleges. It upholds established norms and social order without challenging them.

Does All American Drawback include disability representation?

Limited

Charlie's academic difficulties are used for humor. Describing him as a 'dummy' can reinforce outdated stereotypes about intelligence.

Present on Screen

The film offers insight into the comedic genre conventions and institutional structures of the mid-1930s.

Limited or Absent

The film uses harmful clichés regarding intelligence for comedic effect.
Women play secondary roles in a male-dominated hierarchy.
Lack of racial and LGBTQ+ diversity reflects a narrow, homogenous worldview.

Official Synopsis

The Dean and Board of Flunk Well College are arguing with its football coach, Bergen, about the team's star player, Charlie McCarthy, who is the only reason the team is a winning one, but who isn't doing well academically and could be pulled from the team if his grades and behavior don't improve. In other words, Charlie is a dummy in more ways than one. Beyond other problems Coach Bergen has with Charlie concerning the coach's girlfriend Joan, Coach Bergen has to get Charlie prepared to pass an exam administered by the Dean. Instead of cheating like he usually does, Charlie has his own way of dealing with the exam.

How are these scores produced? →