You are here:

Skyscraper

Name: Skyscraper
Director: Raymond Martino
Released: 1996
Duration: 96 min

Representation Score

2.1/10

Limited

1996

Director

Raymond Martino

Runtime

96 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Skyscraper is a mid-90s action-thriller that emphasizes high-stakes physical conflict over social nuance. While it offers a slight subversion of gendered passivity through its female lead, the film remains firmly rooted in traditional cinematic structures. The narrative relies heavily on established genre conventions, such as the 'us vs. them' dichotomy and the defense of Western institutions. This results in a reliance on conventional hero archetypes. Ultimately, the film functions as a standard genre piece that reinforces traditional gender roles and geopolitical clichés rather than offering progressive representation.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Skyscraper have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The story focuses on a heterosexual marriage between the pilot and her husband. There are no queer narratives or characters with non-traditional gender identities.

How does Skyscraper portray gender?

Fair

The film features a female pilot who embodies professional ability to act for the time period. However, her role is still tied to a traditional partnership with her husband.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Skyscraper?

Limited

The plot revolves around a 'terrorist' conflict, which is a common cliché in 90s cinema. This suggests a reliance on established geopolitical clichés rather than a diverse cast.

How does Skyscraper represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film follows Western action clichés centered on protecting order against external threats. It adheres to a clear moral binary typical of the genre.

Does Skyscraper include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities in the narrative.

Present on Screen

The female lead breaks the 'damsel in distress' cliché by serving as a professional helicopter pilot.

Limited or Absent

The film relies on conventional gender roles and traditional partnerships.
The narrative utilizes repetitive geopolitical clichés regarding terrorist conflicts.
The story lacks diverse casting and inclusive representation of various identities.

Official Synopsis

A helicopter charter turns deadly when the pilot finds that she is on a building held by terrorists. It is up to her and her husband to save the hostages.

How are these scores produced? →