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Project Power

Project Power

Representation Score

4.2/10

Fair

2020

R

Director

Ariel Schulman, Henry Joost

Runtime

113 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Project Power succeeds in diversifying the science fiction genre by centering Black protagonists and using an urban New Orleans setting. This approach provides significant depth to characters of color navigating a criminal underworld. However, the film remains tied to traditional genre clichés regarding gender and identity. The narrative relies on masculine protector roles and lacks representation for LGBTQ+ individuals or characters with permanent disabilities. Ultimately, the film showcases contrasts, offering strong racial intentionality while adhering to conventional gender hierarchies and limited social exploration.

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Category Breakdown

Does Project Power have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include LGBTQ+ characters and does not explore non-cisgender identities. Relationships focus on heterosexual structures, particularly fatherly bonds.

How does Project Power portray gender?

Limited

The narrative focuses on the male protagonist, Art, who holds significant influence over the story. Female characters mainly serve as emotional catalysts for the male lead rather than driving the plot independently.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Project Power?

Excellent

The production breaks away from typical white-dominated sci-fi by featuring a predominantly Black cast. The urban New Orleans setting highlights the lived experiences of underrepresented communities.

How does Project Power represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story critiques systemic corruption and the abuse of power within an urban environment. It emphasizes the moral relativism necessary for survival in high-stakes situations.

Does Project Power include disability representation?

Limited

Superpowers are portrayed as temporary, drug-induced plot devices rather than nuanced explorations of disability. There is no significant portrayal of characters with permanent disabilities.

Present on Screen

  • Strong racial intentionality through a predominantly Black lead cast.
  • An authentic urban setting that centers underrepresented community experiences.
  • Disrupts white-dominated trends common in high-budget science fiction.

Limited or Absent

  • Female characters lack independent ability to act and mostly serve as emotional catalysts.
  • No LGBTQ+ representation or exploration of non-cisgender identities.
  • Does not explore disability or neurodivergence beyond temporary genre mechanics.

Official Synopsis

An ex-soldier, a teen and a cop collide in New Orleans as they hunt for the source behind a dangerous new pill that grants users temporary superpowers.

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