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Major Arcana

Name: Major Arcana
Director: Josh Melrod
Released: 2018
Duration: 82 min

Representation Score

2.7/10

Limited

2018

Director

Josh Melrod

Runtime

82 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Major Arcana is a localized, character-driven drama that relies heavily on conventional clichés of individual redemption. The narrative centers on a male protagonist's attempt to regain control through manual labor and sobriety, focusing on traditional masculine archetypes. The film lacks complexity in its portrayal of diverse identities and social issues. The setting and character dynamics suggest a homogeneous, traditional Western framework rather than a diverse or subversive one. Ultimately, the film functions as a standard character study. It prioritizes personal responsibility and interpersonal conflict over broader social or identity-based themes.

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Category Breakdown

Does Major Arcana have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not explicitly address queer identities or non-traditional gender roles. The story focuses on the protagonist's immediate family and romantic relationships without challenging the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does Major Arcana portray gender?

Fair

Female characters such as Jean and Sierra play important roles but seem to primarily serve as catalysts for the male protagonist's journey. The narrative does not clearly challenge traditional gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Major Arcana?

Limited

Set in rural Vermont, the film follows a traditional, localized storyline. There is no indication of a multi-ethnic cast or the use of actors from different backgrounds.

How does Major Arcana represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story explores personal redemption and family issues through a character study. It does not provide a critical look at societal structures or offer an anti-capitalist viewpoint.

Does Major Arcana include disability representation?

Minimal

The protagonist's struggle with alcoholism is presented as a personal journey. There is no specific mention of neurodivergent or physical disabilities.

Present on Screen

Offers a focused character study on themes of personal redemption and individual effort.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from more diverse representation across racial and LGBTQ+ spectrums.
Female characters often support the male protagonist's journey rather than having independent arcs.
Does not critically examine societal or cultural institutions.

Official Synopsis

Returning to his home town in backwood Vermont, Dink is determined to reclaim control, ending his legacy of alcoholism and constructing his own log cabin by hand. However, Dink’s troubled past, including his gambling mother, Jean and damaged ex-partner, Sierra, threaten to blow him off course.

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