You are here:

Calamity

Name: Calamity
Director: Rémi Chayé
Released: 2020
Duration: 82 min

Representation Score

6.7/10

Good

2020

Director

Rémi Chayé

Runtime

82 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Calamity is a postmodern deconstruction of the Western genre, focusing on a non-conforming female protagonist within a traditionally masculine setting. The film emphasizes the importance of individual identity and ability to act, using Martha Jane's defiance of 19th-century social norms to propel the narrative. The film offers a nuanced look at the American frontier by incorporating diverse ethnic groups, yet it remains centered around the protagonist's personal journey. The film effectively challenges traditional gender hierarchies and the mythologized 'heroic' Western archetype. Overall, Calamity provides a sophisticated critique of historical social structures, emphasizing authentic self-expression over commercialized spectacles.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Calamity have LGBTQ+ representation?

Good

The film highlights Martha Jane's rejection of traditional feminine standards through her choice of pants and short hair, challenging the gender norms of the 1860s.

How does Calamity portray gender?

Excellent

Martha Jane is a strong, independent character whose intelligence and physical abilities are crucial to the story. She defies patriarchal norms by asserting her own strength and ability to act.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Calamity?

Good

The film includes a variety of ethnic groups and Native American characters, reflecting the diverse population of the American frontier. This avoids the typical portrayal of a homogeneous white settler community.

How does Calamity represent religion and culture?

Good

By contrasting the harsh realities of frontier life with the commercialized spectacle of the American West, the film critiques the idealized myth of the West. Traditional social structures are shown as barriers to individual freedom.

Does Calamity include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no prominent depictions of physical or neurodivergent disabilities that drive the narrative or serve as central character arcs.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gender hierarchies with a strong, independent female lead.
Critiques the idealized Western myth by contrasting reality with commercial spectacle.
Explores themes of gender non-conformity and personal identity.

Limited or Absent

Could include more representation of physical and neurodivergent disabilities.
The narrative focuses heavily on the protagonist, possibly overshadowing broader ethnic perspectives.

Official Synopsis

1863, a convoy in the American West, Martha Jane needs to learn how to take care of horses to drive the family wagon. Except she ends up wearing pants and cutting her hair. The scandal that its stark character provokes will force to face all the dangers in a gigantic and wild world where everything is possible.

How are these scores produced? →