You are here:

The Devil You Know

Name: The Devil You Know
Director: Charles Murray
Released: 2022
Duration: 116 min

Representation Score

3.8/10

Limited

2022

Director

Charles Murray

Runtime

116 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The Devil You Know serves as a character study of a formerly incarcerated man trying to reintegrate into society. Its narrative strength lies in its critique of the justice system, positioning the state as a source of pressure rather than protection. However, the film's diversity profile is uneven. While it delves deeply into racialized experiences and systemic institutional failure, it lacks any verifiable representation of LGBTQ+ or disability issues. The gender dynamics appear heavily male-centric, focusing on the tension between brothers and the pursuit by a detective. This leaves the roles and influence of women largely undefined within the current narrative framework.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The Devil You Know have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any visible LGBTQ+ characters or storylines related to queer experiences. There is no information about non-cisgender identities.

How does The Devil You Know portray gender?

Fair

The story focuses on male-driven dynamics such as brotherhood and a detective's investigation. While a loving family is mentioned, the roles and influence of women remain unspecified.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Devil You Know?

Good

Marcus Cowans' journey highlights a narrative centered around a person of color navigating systemic challenges. The plot critiques institutions that disproportionately affect underrepresented communities.

How does The Devil You Know represent religion and culture?

Good

The film emphasizes communal family bonds over institutional authority. It portrays the family as opposing the shortcomings of the Western legal system.

Does The Devil You Know include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no mention of neurodivergence, physical disabilities, or mental health conditions. No representation in this category exists.

Present on Screen

The film provides a critical look at systemic institutional failures and the carceral state.
It explores complex themes of familial loyalty versus the demands of the legal system.
The protagonist's journey offers a focused examination of the challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals during reintegration.

Limited or Absent

The narrative lacks visible representation for LGBTQ+ identities and neurodivergent or disabled characters.
Gender dynamics appear heavily skewed toward male-centric conflicts and hierarchies.
The specific roles and influence of female characters remain unclear and undefined.

Official Synopsis

Once-incarcerated Marcus Cowans is trying to turn over a new leaf with the support of his loving family. Upon discovering that one of his brothers may have been involved in a horrific crime, Marcus grapples with the limits of brotherhood and loyalty. He and his family, increasingly weary of the justice system’s failings, end up in the crosshairs of a seasoned but jaded detective.

How are these scores produced? →