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Swimming to Ferguson

Name: Swimming to Ferguson
Director: Derek Elz
Released: 2018
Duration: 90 min

Representation Score

5.8/10

Fair

2018

PG-13

Director

Derek Elz

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Swimming to Ferguson is a documentary that explores the connection between personal endurance and systemic social change. By linking an ultra-marathon swimming journey to the Ferguson unrest, the film goes beyond simple athletic achievement to address significant sociopolitical tensions. The film effectively engages with themes of racial justice and the deconstruction of social unrest. It portrays the protagonist as part of a broader movement for systemic change rather than just an individual athlete. However, the narrative is heavily focused on a singular masculine archetype. The absence of explicit LGBTQ+ representation or diverse gender perspectives limits the film's exploration of multi-layered issues.

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Category Breakdown

Does Swimming to Ferguson have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include any explicit references to LGBTQ+ characters or stories. There is no clear indication of queer-coded subtext or non-cisgender identities.

How does Swimming to Ferguson portray gender?

Fair

The story focuses on a male professor, emphasizing traditional masculine traits like intellect and endurance. The film does not provide specific details about female protagonists or gendered leadership roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Swimming to Ferguson?

Excellent

The story centers on the Ferguson unrest, highlighting the sociopolitical realities of underrepresented communities. It emphasizes the impact of systemic issues on individuals and communities fighting for justice.

How does Swimming to Ferguson represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film critiques traditional power structures by focusing on social unrest and a quest for peaceful change. It contrasts individual struggles with collective efforts for social justice.

Does Swimming to Ferguson include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no verifiable information about the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities in this documentary.

Present on Screen

Engages strongly with contemporary discussions on racial equity and systemic social justice.
Skillfully contrasts individual physical struggles with collective social movements.
Addresses the sociopolitical realities of underrepresented communities through the Ferguson lens.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit representation or narratives concerning LGBTQ+ identities.
Provides limited evidence of female protagonists or the subversion of traditional gender roles.
Does not include verifiable portrayals of characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Beneath the fury of Ferguson unrest, an affable professor dedicates his life to actionable, peaceful change while attempting the grueling triple crown of ultra-marathon swimming.

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