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Mabel at the Wheel

Name: Mabel at the Wheel
Director: Mack Sennett, Mabel Normand
Released: 1914
Duration: 23 min

Representation Score

2.0/10

Minimal

1914

Director

Mack Sennett, Mabel Normand

Runtime

23 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Mabel at the Wheel stands out for its progressive approach to gender norms in 1914. By placing a woman in a traditionally masculine role as a race car driver, the film highlights significant women's ability to drive the story. However, the film's overall diversity is limited by the historical context, lacking characters who reflect more than one aspect of diversity, particularly in racial, ethnic, and LGBTQ+ identities. The comedy focuses on slapstick humor and individualistic rebellion rather than cultural critique.

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Category Breakdown

Does Mabel at the Wheel have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature any LGBTQ+ characters or narratives related to non-cisgender identities.

How does Mabel at the Wheel portray gender?

Good

Mabel challenges traditional gender roles by taking on a masculine role in auto racing. She actively drives the plot with her strong presence, moving away from typical submissive female roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Mabel at the Wheel?

Minimal

The film lacks diverse racial and ethnic representation, with no non-white characters having significant roles.

How does Mabel at the Wheel represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film uses slapstick humor and rebellious themes to create a chaotic and disruptive atmosphere. It avoids rigid moralistic storytelling by emphasizing individualistic rebellion and physical comedy.

Does Mabel at the Wheel include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not portray any characters with disabilities or give them significant roles in the narrative.

Present on Screen

The film showcases a female protagonist who demonstrates a significant role in driving the story in a traditionally masculine setting.
Mabel Normand's role as both director and lead performer challenges restrictive gender norms of the time.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks racial and ethnic diversity among its cast members.
There are no LGBTQ+ characters or narratives addressing non-cisgender identities.
The narrative does not include characters with disabilities portrayed with significant roles.

Official Synopsis

A villain, competing with his rival's race car, kidnaps the rival before the race. Mabel decides to take the wheel in his place.

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