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The Trial of the Catonsville Nine

Name: The Trial of the Catonsville Nine
Director: Gordon Davidson
Released: 1972
Duration: 85 min

Representation Score

2.9/10

Limited

1972

Director

Gordon Davidson

Runtime

85 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The film functions as a historical record of civil disobedience, emphasizing individual moral conviction over state authority. It showcases a gender-integrated political collective that challenges traditional power structures. However, the documentary focuses on a narrow demographic, primarily white and European, which limits its inclusivity. Additionally, the film lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities and disabilities, further narrowing its scope. Despite these limitations, the film excels in its intellectual critique of Western institutions and its exploration of situational ethics and anti-establishment sentiments.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Trial of the Catonsville Nine have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature any LGBTQ+ characters or stories about non-straight relationships.

How does The Trial of the Catonsville Nine portray gender?

Fair

Both men and women play equal roles in the movement, challenging traditional gender roles of the time.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Trial of the Catonsville Nine?

Limited

The subjects are almost entirely white and of European descent, reflecting the specific demographics of the Catholic pacifist movement.

How does The Trial of the Catonsville Nine represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film highlights the conflict between religious beliefs and state laws, focusing on the morality of conscience over legal obligations.

Does The Trial of the Catonsville Nine include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no visible representations of physical or cognitive disabilities in the film.

Present on Screen

Shows both men and women as equal partners in the movement, challenging traditional gender roles.
Provides a sophisticated critique of Western institutions and state-imposed laws.
Highlights the moral conviction of individuals standing up against systemic oppression.

Limited or Absent

Maintains a homogeneous profile of white, European subjects, lacking racial diversity.
Does not include any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight relationships.
Fails to depict physical or cognitive disabilities.

Official Synopsis

On May 17, 1968, at the height of the Vietnam War, nine men and women entered a Selective Service office outside Baltimore. They removed military draft records, took them outside, and set them afire with napalm.

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