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Trigger

Name: Trigger
Director: Christopher Folkens
Released: 2016
Duration: 11 min

Representation Score

5.4/10

Fair

2016

PG-13

Director

Christopher Folkens

Runtime

11 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Trigger is a character study that emphasizes psychological vulnerability over traditional social hierarchies. It successfully deconstructs the traditional family unit and focuses on the complexities of mental health as the main narrative driver. The film's strength lies in its portrayal of a male character's emotional vulnerability, moving away from typical clichés of invulnerability. It also provides meaningful representation of invisible disabilities through its focus on mental health. However, the film's impact is limited by a lack of clear data on racial diversity and explicit LGBTQ+ identities. Without these elements, the narrative remains focused on a narrow psychological scope.

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Category Breakdown

Does Trigger have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film touches on themes of familial rejection and psychological struggle, which could relate to non-traditional identities. However, there is no clear depiction of queer identity or gender expression.

How does Trigger portray gender?

Fair

The film centers on a male protagonist's emotional vulnerability, challenging traditional ideas of masculinity. It lacks strong female roles and does not clearly subvert gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Trigger?

Minimal

There is no information about the racial or ethnic makeup of the cast or setting, so it's unclear if diverse identities are represented.

How does Trigger represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story critiques the traditional nuclear family by showing it as a source of rejection. It takes a secular, character-driven approach to morality rather than a religious one.

Does Trigger include disability representation?

Good

The film offers meaningful representation of invisible disabilities by focusing on mental health issues and suicidal thoughts. It gives a character dealing with severe psychological distress a significant role.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional masculine stereotypes by highlighting a male character's emotional vulnerability.
Offers meaningful representation of invisible disabilities through its focus on mental health.
Critiques the traditional nuclear family by depicting it as a source of rejection.

Limited or Absent

Lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-conforming gender expressions.
Does not provide information about the racial or ethnic diversity within the cast or setting.
Limited visibility for women's ability to drive the story or the subversion of gender hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

Kevin is a shy young man who, after being rejected by his family, battles the warring thoughts in his head while coming dangerously close to ending his own life. But when an unsuspecting friend shows up at his doorstep, he must face his past in order to change his life forever.

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