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Phenomena

Name: Phenomena
Director: Jordan Belson
Released: 1965
Duration: 7 min

Representation Score

0.6/10

Minimal

1965

Director

Jordan Belson

Runtime

7 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Phenomena is a work of pure abstraction that exists outside the parameters of identity politics. Because it functions as 'visual music' without a traditional plot or characters, it cannot engage with identity-based representation in a conventional sense. While the film lacks meaningful inclusion of underrepresented groups, it earns a baseline score for disrupting traditional cinematic expectations. Its focus on cosmic consciousness serves as a deconstruction of the human-centric perspective. Ultimately, the total absence of character-driven ability to act prevents the film from meeting the criteria for higher-tier progressive representation.

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Category Breakdown

Does Phenomena have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film is purely abstract and contains no human characters or gendered identities. There are no LGBTQ+ themes or interpersonal relationships.

How does Phenomena portray gender?

Minimal

The narrative structure avoids gender hierarchies by not depicting human subjects. There are no portrayals of masculinity or femininity.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Phenomena?

Minimal

The film uses cosmic and organic abstraction instead of human casting. It does not feature a cast or specific ethnic depictions.

How does Phenomena represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film emphasizes non-specific spirituality and deconstructs Western narrative norms. It promotes a universalist spiritualism through cosmic consciousness.

Does Phenomena include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no depictions of human subjects. Consequently, there is no representation of physical or neurodivergent identities.

Present on Screen

The film disrupts traditional Western narrative norms through its abstract, non-narrative structure.
It promotes a universalist spiritualism by prioritizing cosmic consciousness over organized religious institutions.

Limited or Absent

The complete absence of human characters prevents any meaningful representation of specific identities.
The work lacks character-driven ability to act, making it impossible to address social or identity-based hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

Approach the work "...As though you were approaching earth as a god, from cosmic consciousness [...] You see the same things but with completely different meaning." -JB.

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