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Prodigy

Name: Prodigy
Director: Brian Vidal, Alex Haughey
Released: 2017
Duration: 80 min

Representation Score

5.0/10

Fair

2017

TV-MA

Director

Brian Vidal, Alex Haughey

Runtime

80 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Prodigy functions as a specialized, character-driven thriller that finds its strength in subverting traditional gender hierarchies. By positioning a young female as the dominant psychological force, the film avoids typical male-centric narratives. However, the film lacks breadth in its representation of identity. There is a notable absence of racial, ethnic, or LGBTQ+ visibility within the narrative framework, resulting in a narrow scope. Ultimately, while the film offers a nuanced look at cognitive differences and the disruption of systemic order, it does not strive for broad-spectrum inclusivity.

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Category Breakdown

Does Prodigy have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include any explicit references to LGBTQ+ characters or non-cisgender identities. The story focuses solely on the psychological tension between the two main characters.

How does Prodigy portray gender?

Fair

The story challenges traditional gender roles by placing power in the hands of a nine-year-old girl named Ellie. She dominates the narrative, leaving the male protagonist struggling to maintain control.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Prodigy?

Minimal

There is no information about the racial or ethnic identities of the cast. The narrative does not indicate a diverse or non-white majority.

How does Prodigy represent religion and culture?

Fair

The plot explores the breakdown of authority and moral relativism. It contrasts established social institutions with a character who operates outside conventional ethics.

Does Prodigy include disability representation?

Fair

Ellie’s psychopathic genius presents a form of extreme cognitive difference. The film's depth hinges on whether this is portrayed as a source of empowerment or a terrifying cliché.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gender hierarchies by making a young girl the dominant force.
Explores complex themes of moral relativism and the failure of traditional authority.
Provides a unique perspective on cognitive differences through the protagonist's genius.

Limited or Absent

Lacks visible racial and ethnic diversity among the characters.
Does not represent or mention LGBTQ+ identities.
Does not provide specific details about cultural or religious backgrounds.

Official Synopsis

Jimmy is a committed child psychologist who uses his own playbook, but when he is brought in to work with Ellie, he is completely unprepared for his subject—a 9-year-old psychopathic genius with nothing to lose. As he begins to understand the extent of her capabilities and the fate that has been planned for her, he struggles to overcome her defenses before it is too late for them both.

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