You are here:

This So-Called Disaster

Name: This So-Called Disaster
Director: Michael Almereyda
Released: 2003
Duration: 89 min

Representation Score

6.5/10

Good

2003

Director

Michael Almereyda

Runtime

89 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

This documentary focuses on the preparation period for Sam Shepard’s play, *The Late Henry Moss*. Its narrative is driven by real-world theatrical dynamics rather than an intentional ideological framework. By focusing on the chaotic reality of artistic creation, the film avoids heavy-handed traditional clichés. However, it does not use a multi-layered approach to storytelling or identity-driven frameworks. Ultimately, the work serves as a detailed record of the professional process rather than a tool for broader social critique or progressive representation.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does This So-Called Disaster have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film observes a theatrical environment without specifically focusing on LGBTQ+ identities. It provides a neutral baseline for LGBTQ+ representation.

How does This So-Called Disaster portray gender?

Fair

The documentary reflects existing industry hierarchies within the professional ecosystem of a Sam Shepard production. It does not challenge traditional gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is This So-Called Disaster?

Fair

The cast and crew represent the demographics of the early 2000s American theater scene. There are no actively leading characters of color featured.

How does This So-Called Disaster represent religion and culture?

Good

The film explores the complexities of creative labor and artistic process. It avoids promoting singular, traditional Western moralities.

Does This So-Called Disaster include disability representation?

Limited

The film follows standard observational documentary conventions and does not center neurodivergence or physical disabilities in the narrative.

Present on Screen

Avoids promoting singular, traditional Western moralities through its nuanced, observational perspective.
Provides a detailed look at the complexities and inherent instability of the creative process.

Limited or Absent

Does not intentionally deploy a multi-layered approach to storytelling or identity-driven frameworks.
Does not feature actively leading characters of color or specific depictions of neurodivergence.

Official Synopsis

Director Michael Almereyda's documentary on the weeks just prior to Sam Shepard's stage production of his play "The Late Henry Moss."

How are these scores produced? →