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The Bluegrass Special

Name: The Bluegrass Special
Director: Andrew V. McLaglen
Released: 1977
Duration: 48 min

Representation Score

1.0/10

Minimal

1977

TV-G

Director

Andrew V. McLaglen

Runtime

48 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Bluegrass Special is a character-driven drama that highlights female empowerment. By featuring Penny, a young woman in a male-dominated field, the film challenges traditional gender roles. However, the story remains confined to a narrow scope, focusing on individual achievement without delving into broader social issues or systemic complexities. While Penny’s ability to act is a standout feature, the film lacks representation of diverse racial, cultural, or LGBTQ+ identities.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Bluegrass Special have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or stories involving LGBTQ+ individuals.

How does The Bluegrass Special portray gender?

Fair

Penny, a teenage horse trainer, is the main female character who drives the plot with her determination and ability to act in a traditionally male-dominated sport.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Bluegrass Special?

Minimal

The film features a predominantly white cast and does not include characters from diverse racial or ethnic backgrounds.

How does The Bluegrass Special represent religion and culture?

Limited

The movie emphasizes traditional Western values such as individual success and hard work, highlighting the triumph of the human spirit through personal effort.

Does The Bluegrass Special include disability representation?

Minimal

No characters with disabilities are featured, though the horse’s past injuries serve as a plot device.

Present on Screen

The film centers on a strong female protagonist who excels in a male-dominated field.
It offers an inspiring portrayal of personal perseverance and the pursuit of professional dreams.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks racial and ethnic diversity, presenting a homogeneous view of the equestrian community.
There is no representation of LGBTQ+ characters or identities.
The narrative does not explore disability or neurodivergence among its characters.

Official Synopsis

Penny is a teenage horse trainer with a very special dream of becoming a jockey. She picks Woodhill to compete in the upcoming Bluegrass Special; Woodhill is a beautiful race horse with a bad reputation who threw and injured his rider during a race in Tijuana. Penny's devotion and determination are an inspiration to anyone who believes that dreams can come true.

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