You are here:

Hold That Ghost

Name: Hold That Ghost
Director: Arthur Lubin
Released: 1941
Duration: 86 min

Representation Score

2.0/10

Limited

1941

Approved

Director

Arthur Lubin

Runtime

86 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Hold That Ghost is a product of the 1941 studio system, prioritizing genre-based escapism over social complexity. The narrative relies on well-established clichés of class-based comedy and supernatural mystery. The film reinforces the traditional hierarchies of its era. It focuses on situational comedy involving bumbling protagonists rather than challenging social, gender, or racial norms. Ultimately, the work reflects conventional mid-century storytelling, adhering to the restrictive social standards and casting practices of the time.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Hold That Ghost have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film follows the social norms of 1941 and does not depict any non-straight or non-cisgender identities or same-sex relationships.

How does Hold That Ghost portray gender?

Limited

The story revolves around male service station attendants who drive the plot forward. Female characters are mostly supporting figures or romantic interests.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Hold That Ghost?

Limited

The film reflects the homogeneous casting standards of the 1940s. It highlights class differences between working-class attendants and gangsters without showcasing racial diversity.

How does Hold That Ghost represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story uses a traditional Western framework focusing on inheritance and legal wills. It upholds conventional morality and property structures through typical mid-century American clichés.

Does Hold That Ghost include disability representation?

Minimal

Any physical or mental quirks likely serve as humorous plot devices. There is no indication that characters with disabilities have nuanced, character-driven roles.

Present on Screen

The film offers classic genre-based escapism through its mix of comedy and horror.
It effectively uses established mid-century clichés related to class conflict and inheritance.

Limited or Absent

The narrative lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-cisgender characters.
The film reinforces traditional gender hierarchies by centering male protagonists in key roles.
Casting reflects the homogeneous standards of the era, lacking racial and ethnic diversity.
Disability is likely used as a comedic device rather than a nuanced character trait.

Official Synopsis

Two bumbling service station attendants are left as the sole beneficiaries in a gangster's will. Their trip to claim their fortune is sidetracked when they are stranded in a haunted house along with several other strangers.

How are these scores produced? →