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Railroadin'

Name: Railroadin'
Director: Robert F. McGowan
Released: 1929
Duration: 19 min

Representation Score

2.3/10

Limited

1929

Director

Robert F. McGowan

Runtime

19 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Railroadin' is a traditional comedic short that relies on established social norms. While it includes a Black character named Farina, the film maintains the social structures of the 1920s. The narrative emphasizes the importance of adult guidance and safety norms. This focus limits the potential for challenging social power dynamics, as the plot supports traditional family values. Overall, the film upholds the status quo of 1929 social structures, using slapstick and dream sequences to reinforce traditional family and institutional values.

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Category Breakdown

Does Railroadin' have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities. It follows the social norms of the late 1920s.

How does Railroadin' portray gender?

Limited

The story focuses on young male characters and a father figure. It does not challenge gender hierarchies or feature female characters driving the plot.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Railroadin'?

Fair

Farina, a Black character, adds important representation for the time. However, she is often placed in stressful, slapstick situations involving physical danger.

How does Railroadin' represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story upholds traditional Western values and emphasizes the importance of paternal authority. The dream sequences reinforce the value of adult guidance and industrial safety.

Does Railroadin' include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not depict any visible or invisible disabilities.

Present on Screen

The inclusion of Farina provides significant racial representation for the early 20th century.
The story features a diverse group of child characters.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks gender diversity, focusing almost entirely on male characters and a father figure.
Characters of color are used in high-stress, slapstick scenarios involving physical danger.
There are no LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender characters represented.

Official Synopsis

The gang is playing around the railroad station, and Joe and Chubby's father, an engineer, lectures against the kids playing in such a dangerous area. True to his word, after Joe and Chubby's father leaves, a crazy man starts a train with most of the kids on it, save for Farina who is nearly run over several times. Once Farina manages to climb aboard himself, the kids attempt to stop the runaway locomotive, but have no luck until the engine crashes into a grocery truck. As it turns out, however, the entire incident is revealed to be a dream Farina had as Joe and Chubby's father lectured the kids about rail-yard safety.

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