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Hard Surfaces

Name: Hard Surfaces
Director: Zach Brown
Released: 2017
Duration: 89 min

Representation Score

5.3/10

Fair

2017

TV-MA

Director

Zach Brown

Runtime

89 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Hard Surfaces is a psychological drama that focuses on individual characters rather than broad demographic representation. While it avoids simplistic moralizing, the narrative remains narrow in its scope. The film challenges traditional masculine archetypes by having Adrian take on a caretaking role. It also delves into the complexities of addiction and trauma, offering a nuanced view of subjective human experiences. However, the lack of racial diversity and LGBTQ+ identities keeps the narrative centered on a very specific social perspective.

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Category Breakdown

Does Hard Surfaces have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or explore non-straight relationships.

How does Hard Surfaces portray gender?

Fair

The story centers around a male protagonist, but it hints at breaking traditional gender roles. Adrian's shift into a caretaking role for his niece challenges typical masculine behaviors.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Hard Surfaces?

Minimal

The synopsis lacks any indication of a diverse or non-Anglo-Saxon cast. There is no evidence of non-white characters driving the central plot.

How does Hard Surfaces represent religion and culture?

Good

The film explores moral relativism and the complexities of human dysfunction through substance use and addiction. It critiques Western social structures and presents a nuanced view of subjective human experiences.

Does Hard Surfaces include disability representation?

Fair

Themes of addiction suggest a focus on mental health and behavioral issues. However, it is unclear whether these elements give characters real control over their lives or merely serve as plot devices.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional masculine archetypes through Adrian's shift into a caretaking role.
Explores complex themes of moral relativism and the subjective nature of human dysfunction.
Provides a nuanced look at how personal trauma influences social behavior and substance use.

Limited or Absent

Lacks visible racial and ethnic diversity within the cast.
Does not represent LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight relationships.
Does not explicitly address neurodivergence or physical disabilities beyond the lens of addiction.

Official Synopsis

A renowned photographer, Adrian's unique style of shooting drug addicts has made him a local-celebrity. But there is a problem; life imitates art as Adrian parties hard with trophy-girlfriend Liz to drown out a painful past. When his sister suddenly dies, leaving him sole guardian of her 9-year-old daughter, Adrian must face his deepest secrets.

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