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Cyst

Name: Cyst
Director: Tyler Russell
Released: 2020
Duration: 68 min

Representation Score

6.5/10

Good

2020

Director

Tyler Russell

Runtime

68 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Cyst functions as a genre-bending homage to mid-century schlock cinema, utilizing a 1960s setting to explore medical malpractice. The film's strength lies in its potential to subvert traditional authority through its 'mad doctor' cliché and its diverse ensemble cast. However, the film lacks explicit representation of LGBTQ+ identities and relies on a creature that may serve as a mere plot device rather than a character with ability to act. The degree of character's ability to drive the story for non-white cast members remains unclear due to the period setting.

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Category Breakdown

Does Cyst have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not explicitly show LGBTQ+ character arcs or non-straight identities. The plot centers around the conflict between medical staff and a biological anomaly.

How does Cyst portray gender?

Fair

A female nurse serves as the protagonist, navigating power dynamics against a male doctor. This setup allows for a critique of male authority within a medical hierarchy.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Cyst?

Fair

The ensemble features a multi-ethnic cast, including performers like Darren Ewing and Torren Davis. However, the 1960s setting may affect how these identities are integrated.

How does Cyst represent religion and culture?

Fair

The narrative critiques institutional competence by framing the medical establishment as a source of chaos. It views traditional scientific authority with skepticism.

Does Cyst include disability representation?

Fair

The cyst monster represents a biological abnormality and bodily deviation. The film explores the 'othering' of non-standard physical forms through this sci-fi construct.

Present on Screen

Features a multi-ethnic ensemble cast including Torren Davis and Darren Ewing.
Provides a foundation for exploring gendered power dynamics through a female protagonist.
Uses the mad doctor cliché to critique institutional stability and scientific ethics.

Limited or Absent

Lacks visible LGBTQ+ representation or non-straight character arcs.
Risk of using the biological anomaly as a plot device rather than a character.
Uncertainty regarding the ability to act of diverse cast members within the 1960s setting.

Official Synopsis

In the 1960s, a nurse's last day on her job is ruined when a doctor inadvertently creates a cyst monster that terrorizes the office.

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