You are here:

Texasville

Name: Texasville
Director: Peter Bogdanovich
Released: 1990
Duration: 123 min

Representation Score

3.9/10

Limited

1990

Director

Peter Bogdanovich

Runtime

123 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Texasville is a character-driven drama that emphasizes stability and equilibrium among middle-aged individuals. It leans on traditional Western archetypes, such as the fallen local hero and the returning ingenue. The narrative adheres to a conventional social framework, providing a nuanced portrayal of protagonist vulnerabilities without challenging systemic structures. This results in a lack of diverse representation. Ultimately, the film examines community cohesion within a homogeneous social microcosm, highlighting personal ethics over broader social critique.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Texasville have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include visible LGBTQ+ characters or explore non-traditional gender identities. Relationships are centered around heterosexual and traditional marriage structures.

How does Texasville portray gender?

Fair

Women are frequently shown through roles involving domestic duties and emotional labor, such as dealing with alcoholism. Masculinity is depicted as vulnerable due to economic struggles but remains tied to traditional roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Texasville?

Limited

The cast is primarily white and Anglo-Saxon, reflecting the film’s 1980s Texas setting. Non-white characters are not used to advance the main storyline.

How does Texasville represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story presents a sentimental look at personal tragedies and maintains a focus on upholding the status quo within a capitalist society.

Does Texasville include disability representation?

Fair

The film deals with aging and terminal illnesses, focusing on the emotional impact on the community rather than the individual's experience.

Present on Screen

Provides a nuanced look at masculine vulnerability through themes of aging and economic hardship.
Explores the complexities of life through the lens of mortality and physical decline.

Limited or Absent

Does not feature visible LGBTQ+ characters or explore non-traditional gender identities.
Does not challenge traditional gender hierarchies or provide substantial female influence.
Has a predominantly white, Anglo-Saxon cast with limited diversity.

Official Synopsis

Summer, 1984: 30 years after Duane captained the high school football team and Jacy was homecoming queen, this Texas town near Wichita Falls prepares for its centennial. Oil prices are down, banks are failing, and Duane's $12 million in debt. His wife Karla drinks too much, his children are always in trouble, and he tom-cats around with the wives of friends. Jacy's back in town, after a mildly successful acting career, life in Italy, and the death of her son. Folks assume Duane and Jacy will resume their high school romance. And Sonny is "tired in his mind," causing worries for his safety. Can these friends find equilibrium in middle age?

How are these scores produced? →