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The Field

Name: The Field
Director: Jim Sheridan
Released: 1990
Duration: 110 min

Representation Score

1.2/10

Minimal

1990

PG-13

Director

Jim Sheridan

Runtime

110 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Field is a traditionalist character study that emphasizes historical realism and patriarchal archetypes. It serves as a heavy, character-driven drama centered on the tension between individual identity and systemic structures. While the film does not offer diverse representation regarding gender, race, and LGBTQ+ identity, it excels through its post-colonial undertones. It investigates the psychological impact of land ownership and the erosion of social order. The narrative's strength lies in its critique of capitalist expansion and its examination of subjective morality, rather than the inclusion of underrepresented identities.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Field have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses solely on a society where everyone is assumed to be straight and cisgender. There are no stories that explore or question non-cisgender identities.

How does The Field portray gender?

Limited

The story follows traditional patriarchal structures. Female characters are mostly confined to domestic duties, while the plot is driven by male authority and land ownership.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Field?

Minimal

Set in rural Ireland, the cast is primarily white and uniform. The conflict revolves around class and national identity rather than racial or ethnic diversity.

How does The Field represent religion and culture?

Good

The film provides a sophisticated critique of capitalism and Western ideas of property. It delves into a primal, spiritual bond with the land that challenges conventional morality.

Does The Field include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no noticeable representation of physical, sensory, or neurodivergent disabilities among the main characters or supporting cast.

Present on Screen

Provides a sophisticated critique of Western capitalism and the disruptive nature of progress.
Explores complex themes of moral relativism and personal codes versus institutional authority.
Offers a deep, character-driven exploration of the psychological connection to land.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender gender expressions.
Reinforces traditional patriarchal hierarchies and submissive female roles.
Features a homogeneous cast with minimal racial or ethnic diversity.

Official Synopsis

"Bull" McCabe's family has farmed a field for generations, sacrificing much in the name of the land. When the widow who owns the field decides to sell it in a public auction, McCabe knows that he must own it. While no local dare bid against him, a wealthy American decides he requires the field to build a highway. "Bull" and his son decide they must try to convince the American to let go of his ambition and return home, but the consequences of their plot prove sinister.

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