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Dial 1119

Name: Dial 1119
Director: Gerald Mayer
Released: 1950
Duration: 75 min

Representation Score

2.0/10

Limited

1950

Approved

Director

Gerald Mayer

Runtime

75 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Dial 1119 is a classic mid-century suspense thriller that emphasizes genre conventions over social commentary. The film adheres to the demographic and social norms of 1950s American cinema, reinforcing traditional hierarchies without challenging them. The narrative structure revolves around male-driven tension and psychological suspense. While mental health is a key plot device, it is used through established clichés of the era without offering deeper representation. Overall, the film lacks the intentionality needed to disrupt social structures. It functions as a typical crime drama of its time, maintaining a homogeneous and conventional social environment.

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Category Breakdown

Does Dial 1119 have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

There are no LGBTQ+ characters or depictions of same-sex relationships in the film. It follows a traditional focus on straight relationships.

How does Dial 1119 portray gender?

Limited

Women play supporting roles in the bar setting but do not have significant control over the story. They are part of the gender hierarchy without challenging it.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Dial 1119?

Limited

The cast is homogeneous, reflecting the era's production standards. There is no significant racial or ethnic diversity in the main plot.

How does Dial 1119 represent religion and culture?

Limited

The film presents a conventional urban setting without critiquing religious or capitalist systems. It focuses on individual psychological stability rather than broader societal issues.

Does Dial 1119 include disability representation?

Limited

Mental instability is used as a suspenseful element through the character of a deranged killer. This employs mental health as a plot device without providing a nuanced portrayal.

Present on Screen

The film effectively uses psychological tension and suspense to drive its thriller narrative.

Limited or Absent

The film relies on outdated clichés regarding mental health to create conflict.
The narrative lacks diversity in gender, race, and sexual orientation.
Female characters are limited to traditional, supporting roles without significant influence.

Official Synopsis

A deranged killer escapes from a mental institution. Intent on locating the psychiatrist whose testimony sent him to the asylum, he holds the patrons of a bar hostage.

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