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Contact

Contact

Representation Score

7.3/10

Good

1997

PG

Director

Robert Zemeckis

Runtime

150 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Contact stands out for its subversion of traditional gender roles, positioning a woman at the center of groundbreaking scientific discoveries. This shifts the power dynamics away from typical masculine hero clichés found in science fiction. However, the film remains confined within traditional structures, lacking in diverse racial representation and adhering to straight-centered assumptions. Its true strength lies in its critical examination of institutional authority, presenting a nuanced view of the interaction between scientific truth and religious beliefs.

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Category Breakdown

Does Contact have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not prominently feature LGBTQ+ characters or explore non-straight relationships. The romantic storyline centers around a traditional relationship between the main character and another person.

How does Contact portray gender?

Good

Dr. Eleanor Arroway is a strong female lead whose intellect and actions drive the plot. She challenges the typical male hero archetype by asserting herself in a male-dominated scientific environment.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Contact?

Fair

The casting primarily includes Western, academic professionals. The film does not include diverse racial representation that would challenge Anglo-centric views in scientific settings.

How does Contact represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The story examines the conflict between empirical science and organized religion. It highlights how traditional institutions can hinder scientific progress and human advancement.

Does Contact include disability representation?

Fair

The film does not prominently depict physical or neurodivergent disabilities. The narrative focuses on philosophical questions rather than the experiences of individuals with disabilities.

Present on Screen

  • Challenges traditional gender roles by featuring a powerful female scientist.
  • Offers a sophisticated look at the tension between science and religion.
  • Explores complex ideas about moral relativism and subjective truth.

Limited or Absent

  • Could include more LGBTQ+ characters or explore non-straight relationships.
  • Needs more diverse racial and ethnic representation in scientific roles.
  • Should consider incorporating characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

A radio astronomer receives the first extraterrestrial radio signal ever picked up on Earth. As the world powers scramble to decipher the message and decide upon a course of action, she must make some difficult decisions between her beliefs, the truth, and reality.

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