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Death by Design

Name: Death by Design
Director: Sue Williams
Released: 2016
Duration: 73 min

Representation Score

4.2/10

Fair

2016

Director

Sue Williams

Runtime

73 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Death by Design operates as a systemic critique of the Information Age rather than a character-driven study. Its strength lies in its ability to expose the socio-economic costs of planned obsolescence by dismantling the narrative of technological progress. The film achieves diversity through its thematic structure, using a post-colonial lens to highlight disparities between Western consumption and its impact on developing nations. This shifts the focus from individual consumer choice to the global inequities of the electronics trade. However, the documentary lacks representation of specific identity-based groups. There is no visible focus on LGBTQ+ identities or disability, as the narrative remains strictly centered on industrial and ecological systems.

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Category Breakdown

Does Death by Design have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary focuses on the ecological and systemic impacts of the electronics industry. It does not include stories or themes related to LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight relationships.

How does Death by Design portray gender?

Fair

The film critiques the patriarchal structures of global capitalism and the industrial complex. It looks at how global labor markets, which often involve underrepresented genders, are affected by Western consumer demands.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Death by Design?

Good

By examining the global supply chain, the film highlights labor and environmental consequences in regions affected by historical colonization. It centers the experiences of the Global South to challenge Western industrial dominance.

How does Death by Design represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The narrative challenges Western institutions by framing modern capitalism and technological progress as ecologically harmful. It prioritizes an anti-capitalist critique of the consumerist ethos.

Does Death by Design include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not explicitly address neurodivergence, physical disability, or sensory impairments. These elements are not central to the documentary's thematic framework.

Present on Screen

Uses a post-colonial lens to challenge Western industrial dominance.
Effectively deconstructs the systemic inequities of the global electronics trade.
Provides a progressive critique of capitalist structures and technological expansionism.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight themes.
Does not address neurodivergence, physical disability, or sensory impairments.
Focuses on systemic structures rather than individual identity-based narratives.

Official Synopsis

This documentary seeks to open your eyes to the the costly consequences of the Information Age, when we are addicted to constantly replacing our electronic devices with newer and better versions.

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