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Across the Great Divide

Name: Across the Great Divide
Director: Stewart Raffill
Released: 1976
Duration: 105 min

Representation Score

0.6/10

Minimal

1976

Director

Stewart Raffill

Runtime

105 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Across the Great Divide is a conventional Western adventure that prioritizes historical genre clichés over the exploration of diverse identities. It functions as a survivalist narrative centered on the Anglo-centric experience of the 19th-century American frontier. The film maintains traditional social hierarchies and lacks the intentionality required to disrupt established cultural norms. It adheres to the period-appropriate dynamics and straight-centered structures common in 1970s adventure filmmaking. Ultimately, the production lacks multi-layered representation, focusing instead on the physical endurance of its characters within a homogeneous social framework.

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Category Breakdown

Does Across the Great Divide have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any visible LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight relationships. It follows the traditional romantic structures typical of 1970s adventure cinema.

How does Across the Great Divide portray gender?

Limited

While the female lead is central to the journey, the narrative reinforces traditional gender roles. The film lacks portrayals of female intellect as a primary driver.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Across the Great Divide?

Minimal

The production features a predominantly white cast reflecting the historical context of the settlers. The narrative focuses on a specific Anglo-centric experience of the American West.

How does Across the Great Divide represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story emphasizes individualist struggle and the pursuit of land. It avoids critiques of Western institutions, capitalism, or religion, presenting the frontier as a space for traditional achievement.

Does Across the Great Divide include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no discernible representation of physical, sensory, or neurodivergent disabilities. Characters are defined primarily by their ability to endure the physical rigors of the Rocky Mountains.

Present on Screen

The film provides a focused, period-appropriate portrayal of the 19th-century settler experience.

Limited or Absent

The narrative lacks racial diversity, relying on a predominantly white cast.
There is no representation of LGBTQ+ identities or neurodivergent characters.
The film reinforces traditional gender roles rather than challenging them.

Official Synopsis

Two orphans set out to claim their inheritance - a 400 acre plot of land in Salem Oregon. To Do so they must cross the rugged snow covered Rocky Mountains in the year 1876.

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