You are here:

The Atoning

Name: The Atoning
Director: Michael Williams
Released: 2017
Duration: 89 min

Representation Score

3.3/10

Limited

2017

TV-MA

Director

Michael Williams

Runtime

89 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The Atoning is a psychological horror film that emphasizes the internal breakdown of a nuclear family rather than broader social representation. The narrative employs supernatural elements to explore the fragility of domestic stability and the impact of past trauma. While the film avoids depicting the family as inherently stable or positive, it lacks the layered depth needed for a higher diversity rating. The focus remains on the psychological state of the central characters.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The Atoning have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses solely on a seemingly typical nuclear family. There is no indication of non-straight or non-cisgender identities or same-sex relationships.

How does The Atoning portray gender?

Fair

The story centers on a domestic unit, which may reinforce traditional gender roles. However, the breakdown of the family suggests a disruption of these conventional archetypes.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Atoning?

Minimal

The narrative does not specify the racial or ethnic backgrounds of the main characters. There is no indication of a predominantly non-white cast.

How does The Atoning represent religion and culture?

Fair

The plot delves into subjective morality through themes of guilt and atonement. It portrays the nuclear family as a fragile, unstable institution rather than a protective one.

Does The Atoning include disability representation?

Fair

Psychological trauma and mental health issues are central to the story. The portrayal of personal demons gives significant weight to internal struggles, though their complexity is not fully explained.

Present on Screen

Examines the instability of the nuclear family unit.
Uses psychological realism to enhance the horror elements.
Addresses complex themes of guilt and atonement.

Limited or Absent

Does not include visible representation of LGBTQ+ identities.
Does not provide specific information about racial or ethnic diversity.
Does not actively challenge systemic hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

Vera, Ray, and Sam, a seemingly normal family, are haunted by more than mere ghosts. The lingering horror of their past threatens their ability to function as a loving family until they become enlightened by a mystical encounter. From that moment on, they're thrust into a horror worse than anything they've ever experienced. Personal demons manifest and tear the family apart from the inside out as they come to terms with their past.

How are these scores produced? →