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The Amendment

Name: The Amendment
Director: Paul Brown
Released: 2018
Duration: 90 min

Representation Score

4.6/10

Fair

2018

PG-13

Director

Paul Brown

Runtime

90 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Amendment is a traditional biographical drama that prioritizes individual merit and the preservation of family legacy. It follows a standard Western narrative arc of personal redemption and legislative progress within established systemic frameworks. The film focuses on the Douglass family's pursuit of justice following a 1979 tragedy. Rather than critiquing social structures, the story celebrates the efficacy of state institutions and the triumph of the human spirit. Ultimately, the narrative architecture remains conservative, emphasizing the sanctity of the family unit and the restorative power of the legal system rather than disrupting conventional social hierarchies.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Amendment have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film centers on the sibling bond between Brooks and Leslie Douglass. There is no evidence of queer narratives or non-binary gender identities within this domestic tragedy.

How does The Amendment portray gender?

Fair

Leslie Douglass is depicted as a survivor, but the political arc focuses on Brooks's masculine leadership. The narrative prioritizes his achievement as a state senator.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Amendment?

Limited

Set in 1979 Oklahoma, the story follows the Douglass family through a conventional biographical lens. The film lacks evidence of a diverse or non-Anglo-Saxon ensemble.

How does The Amendment represent religion and culture?

Limited

The themes of parental wisdom and individual resilience align with traditional Western values. The story emphasizes restorative justice through existing legal institutions.

Does The Amendment include disability representation?

Fair

The plot touches on the psychological aftermath of trauma and emotional instability. It remains unclear if these mental health struggles are treated who play a significant role in driving the story.

Present on Screen

Highlights Leslie Douglass's ability to drive the story as a survivor of significant trauma.
Explores the psychological impact of grief and the struggle to find emotional stability.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-binary gender narratives.
Focuses heavily on traditional masculine leadership and political achievement.
Follows a conventional Western biographical format without significant racial diversity.
Emphasizes institutional justice rather than critiquing systemic social structures.

Official Synopsis

The Amendment is a powerful and inspiring true story of finding triumph over tragedy, injustice, and loss. In 1979, Brooks Douglass and his sister Leslie survived a devastating crime that rocked their community and took their parents’ lives. Initially sent into an emotional tailspin, Brooks regained his footing, became Oklahoma’s youngest state senator, and championed important victims’ rights legislation. It is not until his quest for justice brings him face to face with his parents’ killer that he finds the lessons of his father may hold the answer to finally finding peace.

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