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Them!

Name: Them!
Director: Gordon Douglas
Released: 1954
Duration: 94 min

Representation Score

0.5/10

Minimal

1954

Approved

Director

Gordon Douglas

Runtime

94 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Them! serves as a study of mid-century institutional cooperation rather than social disruption. The narrative focuses on the effectiveness of state and scientific collaboration to address a biological threat. While the film is groundbreaking in its genre, it adheres closely to the demographic norms of its time. It supports existing power structures by portraying survival as a result of seamless military and scientific coordination. Ultimately, the film lacks complexity in representing diverse identities. It presents a world where traditional hierarchies and authority are key to maintaining social order.

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Category Breakdown

Does Them! have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any visible LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight relationships. The social environment is portrayed through a strictly cisgender perspective, reinforcing traditional romantic roles.

How does Them! portray gender?

Limited

A female scientist has some professional influence, but the story emphasizes male-driven action and protection. The narrative highlights a male-dominated domain in both science and physical defense.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Them!?

Limited

The cast is largely uniform, reflecting the homogeneity typical of 1950s Hollywood. The story centers on a specific American Southwest setting without addressing racial diversity or varied cultural backgrounds.

How does Them! represent religion and culture?

Minimal

The film upholds traditional Western institutions such as the FBI and US Army. It emphasizes the preservation of established social orders against chaotic disruptions.

Does Them! include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no significant depiction of characters with visible or invisible disabilities. Characters are defined mainly by their physical abilities and professional roles.

Present on Screen

Features a female scientist who has some professional influence within the scientific team.

Limited or Absent

The cast is predominantly uniform and lacks racial or ethnic diversity.
Decision-making and tactical actions are almost entirely driven by male characters.
The film does not include any representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-straight relationships.
There is no depiction of characters with visible or invisible disabilities.

Official Synopsis

As a result of nuclear testing, gigantic, ferocious mutant ants appear in the American desert southwest, and a father-daughter team of entomologists join forces with the state police officer who first discovers their existence, an FBI agent and, eventually, the US Army to eradicate the menace, before it spreads across the continent — and the world.

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