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When the World Breaks

Name: When the World Breaks
Released: 2010

Representation Score

5.5/10

Fair

2010

TV-PG

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

When the World Breaks examines the Great Depression through multiple perspectives, highlighting how systemic economic collapse can inspire human ingenuity. By integrating a wide array of voices, from ordinary citizens to high-profile figures, the documentary avoids a narrow historical lens. The film challenges traditional Anglo-centric narratives by featuring diverse figures and exploring various sectors. This approach provides a more nuanced understanding of how different demographic groups experienced the Great Depression. However, the film does not explicitly address modern identity politics, such as LGBTQ+ narratives or disability representation, sticking to broader socio-economic and historical themes.

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Category Breakdown

Does When the World Breaks have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The film does not include any explicit LGBTQ+ narratives or critiques of the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender. It focuses on historical and socio-economic themes without addressing LGBTQ+ issues.

How does When the World Breaks portray gender?

Fair

The documentary features a variety of voices from different sectors such as business, architecture, and entertainment. Although the specific gender breakdown is not detailed, the inclusion of various sectors suggests a balanced approach.

How racially and ethnically diverse is When the World Breaks?

Good

The film highlights figures like Jesse Jackson alongside ordinary citizens, presenting a diverse range of experiences during the Great Depression. This approach challenges traditional Anglo-centric historical narratives.

How does When the World Breaks represent religion and culture?

Good

The documentary presents the Great Depression as a period of human ability to act and creativity, moving away from a singular Western-centric perspective. It emphasizes the multifaceted nature of historical events.

Does When the World Breaks include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no specific mention of individuals with physical or neurodivergent disabilities in the film. Therefore, there is no confirmed representation of people with disabilities.

Present on Screen

Highlights diverse figures like Jesse Jackson to challenge monolithic historical narratives.
Explores the intersection of economic crisis and human creativity across various sectors.
Provides a multi-perspective view by comparing the experiences of luminaries and ordinary people.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from including more explicit LGBTQ+ narratives or critiques.
Needs to provide clearer evidence regarding the inclusion of individuals with disabilities.
Should detail the specific gender breakdown of its interviewees for a more inclusive approach.

Official Synopsis

Exploring the idea that times of extreme difficulty facilitate increased resourcefulness and creativity, this compelling documentary takes a look at the art, music, literature, business, architecture, sports and entertainment of the Great Depression. The filmmakers also interview both ordinary people dealing with crisis and a diverse group of luminaries -- including Buzz Aldrin, Jesse Jackson, Hugh Downs, Mickey Rooney and Jerry Stiller.

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