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American Dreamer

Name: American Dreamer
Director: Derrick Borte
Released: 2019
Duration: 92 min

Representation Score

3.1/10

Limited

2019

Director

Derrick Borte

Runtime

92 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

American Dreamer functions primarily as a gritty neo-noir character study rather than a film focused on identity politics. Its main narrative engine is a critique of Western socioeconomic stability and the erosion of the social contract. The film delves into how institutionalized financial struggles can compel individuals to turn to crime. It leverages the protagonist's desperation to challenge the myth of the American Dream. However, it lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities and does not depict characters with disabilities.

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Category Breakdown

Does American Dreamer have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or themes. The storyline revolves around a socioeconomic conflict between a driver and a drug dealer.

How does American Dreamer portray gender?

Fair

The story centers on a male-driven conflict involving paternal desperation. Although there are female actors in the cast, the plot is driven through traditional masculine roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is American Dreamer?

Fair

The cast includes diverse actors such as Robbie Jones and Alejandro Hernandez, suggesting a move away from homogeneous casting within the neo-noir genre.

How does American Dreamer represent religion and culture?

Good

The film critiques the 'American Dream' by depicting it as a failed ideal. It examines how systemic financial issues can push individuals towards criminal behavior.

Does American Dreamer include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no evidence of visible or invisible disabilities being portrayed in the film's plot or character descriptions.

Present on Screen

The film offers a sophisticated critique of capitalist stability and the collapse of traditional economic structures.
The cast features diverse actors, moving away from homogeneous casting through characters like Mazz.
The narrative provides a dark, realistic commentary on contemporary societal structures and systemic pressures.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks any representation or subtext regarding LGBTQ+ identities.
Gender roles are framed through traditional masculine roles without challenging existing hierarchies.
There is no depiction of characters navigating life with visible or invisible disabilities.

Official Synopsis

A down on his luck driver making extra cash chauffeuring a low level drug dealer around town, finds himself in a serious financial bind and decides to kidnap the dealer's child.

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