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Special

Special

Representation Score

5.0/10

Fair

2006

R

Director

Jeremy Passmore, Hal Haberman

Runtime

81 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Special is a focused character study that emphasizes the exploration of neurodivergence over broad demographic representation. It excels by providing a nuanced, intense look at mental health by making viewers experience a fragmented subjective reality. However, the film lacks significant diversity in terms of race, gender, and LGBTQ+ identities. It focuses narrowly on the protagonist's personal psychological journey. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its refusal to trivialize mental illness, even though it remains a narrow, character-focused narrative.

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Category Breakdown

Does Special have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not focus on queer romantic relationships or non-traditional gender identities. Instead, it explores the theme of isolation through the lens of neurodivergence rather than sexual or gender identity issues.

How does Special portray gender?

Fair

Gender roles are shown through the protagonist's struggle to navigate traditional relationships. The film highlights the breakdown of social skills rather than challenging traditional gender hierarchies.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Special?

Limited

This urban character study lacks a diverse range of ethnic backgrounds or actors playing roles outside their traditional ethnicity. The narrative stays focused on the protagonist's internal thoughts and feelings.

How does Special represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film uses an unreliable narrator to explore the idea that perception can vary from person to person. It questions how individuals fit into societal and institutional norms.

Does Special include disability representation?

Good

The film stands out by centering a protagonist dealing with psychosis. It gives this character a strong role in driving the story, offering a detailed look at mental instability.

Present on Screen

  • Provides a complex, nuanced portrayal of neurodivergence and mental health.
  • Gives a strong role to a protagonist dealing with psychosis.
  • Avoids 'inspiration porn' by focusing on the lived experience of instability.

Limited or Absent

  • Lacks significant representation of LGBTQ+ identities and romantic relationships.
  • Offers limited racial and ethnic diversity within its urban setting.
  • Does not actively challenge or empower through gender dynamics.

Official Synopsis

A lonely metermaid has a psychotic reaction to his medication and becomes convinced he's a superhero. A very select group of people in life are truly gifted. Special is a movie about everyone else.

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