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Tesla

Name: Tesla
Director: David Grubin
Released: 2016
Duration: 54 min

Representation Score

2.9/10

Limited

2016

TV-PG

Director

David Grubin

Runtime

54 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Tesla (2016) operates as a traditional biographical documentary that emphasizes chronological and professional milestones. Its adherence to historical facts naturally leads to a narrow demographic focus. The film reflects the social hierarchies of its time, particularly concerning gender and race. While it offers ethnic depth by highlighting Tesla's Serbian heritage and immigrant status, the overall narrative remains centered on Western industrial figures. Ultimately, the documentary does not aim to challenge conventional hierarchies or introduce perspectives that reflect multiple aspects of identity. Instead, it presents a standard historical account of a specific, male-centric scientific era.

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Category Breakdown

Does Tesla have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary focuses solely on the historical and scientific biography of Nikola Tesla. It does not depict any same-sex relationships or explore non-binary gender identities.

How does Tesla portray gender?

Limited

The story centers around a male-dominated world of industrial innovation. Women appear in supporting roles but do not have significant influence on the main narrative.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Tesla?

Fair

The film highlights Tesla's identity as an ethnic Serb and his experiences as an immigrant. However, the narrative primarily focuses on Western industrial figures.

How does Tesla represent religion and culture?

Fair

The documentary examines the tension between scientific vision and emerging capitalist structures. It portrays the rivalry between Tesla and Edison through patent disputes and commercial interests.

Does Tesla include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not significantly address neurodiversity or physical disabilities. Tesla's 'unbridled imagination' is presented as a personal trait rather than a deeper exploration of mental health.

Present on Screen

Highlights Tesla's identity as a Serbian immigrant.
Accurately reflects the historical context and social structures of the early 20th century.

Limited or Absent

Women play minor roles and do not significantly influence the main narrative.
Does not meaningfully explore neurodiversity or mental health issues.
Focuses narrowly on Western industrial figures and male-dominated spheres.

Official Synopsis

Meet Nikola Tesla, the genius engineer and tireless inventor whose technology revolutionized the electrical age of the 20th century. Although eclipsed in fame by Edison and Marconi, it was Tesla's vision that paved the way for today's wireless world. His fertile but undisciplined imagination was the source of his genius but also his downfall, as the image of Tesla as a mad scientist came to overshadow his reputation as a brilliant innovator.

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