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Not Quite Human

Name: Not Quite Human
Director: Steven Hilliard Stern
Released: 1987
Duration: 97 min

Representation Score

3.9/10

Limited

1987

TV-G

Director

Steven Hilliard Stern

Runtime

97 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Not Quite Human is a conventional 1980s science-fiction comedy that prioritizes genre clichés over social commentary. The narrative uses an android to explore the concept of social integration, but it frames this through a lens of conformity. The goal is for the protagonist to mimic human norms rather than challenge societal structures. The production lacks intentionality regarding the disruption of social hierarchies. Instead, it reinforces the status quo of its era through a homogeneous cast and traditional character archetypes. Ultimately, the film functions as a standard morality tale about scientific innovation and property, lacking diverse representation or multi-layered depth.

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Category Breakdown

Does Not Quite Human have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

There are no visible LGBTQ+ characters or explorations of non-straight relationships in the film. It operates within a framework that assumes everyone is straight or cisgender.

How does Not Quite Human portray gender?

Fair

The film reinforces traditional gender roles, focusing on male-driven scientific invention and technological curiosity. Female characters play supporting roles without significant control over their own destinies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Not Quite Human?

Limited

The film depicts a largely homogeneous suburban environment with minimal racial or ethnic diversity. It portrays a conventional, predominantly white depiction of American middle-class life.

How does Not Quite Human represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story adheres to traditional Western values regarding scientific progress and family stability. It lacks any anti-Western sentiment or deconstruction of Western institutions.

Does Not Quite Human include disability representation?

Limited

The android protagonist serves as a science-fiction cliché for 'otherness' rather than a nuanced exploration of disability. The film fails to provide meaningful ability to act to characters with actual disabilities.

Present on Screen

Uses a science-fiction metaphor to explore the concept of social integration and 'otherness'.

Limited or Absent

Lacks racial and ethnic diversity, presenting a largely homogeneous suburban environment.
Reinforces traditional gender roles rather than providing female characters with significant control over their own destinies.
Fails to provide meaningful representation or ability to act for characters with actual disabilities.
Operates within a strictly straight-centered framework with no queer representation.

Official Synopsis

Dr. Jonas Carson, a scientist, invents Chip, an android teenager. Dr. Carson sends Chip to school with his daughter Becky to see whether an android could interact with others. But his former employer decides to try and make a profit by stealing the mechanical boy.

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