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Tenants

Name: Tenants
Director: Chava Cartas
Released: 2018
Duration: 88 min

Representation Score

5.7/10

Fair

2018

TV-MA

Director

Chava Cartas

Runtime

88 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Tenants (2018) distinguishes itself through its deep connection to regional specifics. By embedding its horror in the authentic practices of Santería and Mexican mysticism, the film shifts beyond superficial aesthetics to make local spiritual traditions the core of the plot. While the film adheres to traditional frameworks concerning gender and sexual orientation, it successfully challenges common Western horror conventions. The narrative avoids the sanitized, universalized approach typical of the genre by focusing on a localized perspective. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its refusal to prioritize Western spiritual hierarchies. It presents a world where non-Western beliefs are central to the characters' reality and the unfolding supernatural events.

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Category Breakdown

Does Tenants have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film focuses on a heterosexual relationship between Luzma and Demián. There is no indication of queer identities or narratives that explore non-traditional gender roles.

How does Tenants portray gender?

Fair

Luzma is an active protagonist who drives the mystery forward through her investigation of her neighbors' secrets.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Tenants?

Good

The story stands out by emphasizing Santería and local witchcraft traditions in Guadalajara. This approach avoids Western-centric clichés by making regional practices central to the narrative.

How does Tenants represent religion and culture?

Excellent

The film recognizes non-Christian belief systems as complex and powerful. It avoids the typical Western spiritual focus by treating local mysticism as an integral part of the social fabric.

Does Tenants include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no apparent depiction of physical or neurodivergent disabilities within the film's storyline.

Present on Screen

Strong commitment to cultural authenticity through localized spiritual practices.
Disrupts Western-centric horror conventions by centering Santería and regional mysticism.
Provides women's ability to drive the story through a protagonist who actively investigates the mystery.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-traditional gender narratives.
Relies on traditional heterosexual romantic structures for its central characters.
Provides no discernible representation of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

A couple arrives to an apartment complex where santeria and witchcraft are common practice.

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