You are here:

I Sell the Dead

Name: I Sell the Dead
Director: Glenn McQuaid
Released: 2008
Duration: 85 min

Representation Score

3.1/10

Limited

2008

Director

Glenn McQuaid

Runtime

85 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

I Sell the Dead functions as a traditional period piece, confined by the demographic uniformity of its 18th-century setting. While it delves into the ethical dilemmas of spiritualism and the exploitation of grief, it does not use this context to challenge broader social hierarchies. The film lacks intentional efforts to represent diverse identities. Characters are mostly confined within a narrow social scope that emphasizes the central supernatural mystery over varied personal experiences. Overall, the narrative adheres to historical clichés rather than challenging them, leading to a story that feels limited in cultural and demographic breadth.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does I Sell the Dead have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any visible LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight identities. The social structure follows traditional norms without showing any clear queer influence.

How does I Sell the Dead portray gender?

Limited

Female characters mainly play roles within the spiritualist movement. They have influence in the séance industry but their actions are limited by the social norms of their time.

How racially and ethnically diverse is I Sell the Dead?

Minimal

The setting focuses on a predominantly white, upper-class British society. The story does not feature characters of color in central, influential roles.

How does I Sell the Dead represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film explores the conflict between scientific doubt and spiritual belief. It highlights the exploitation of grief but does not delve into broader institutional critiques.

Does I Sell the Dead include disability representation?

Limited

There is no significant depiction of neurodivergence, physical disabilities, or chronic illnesses. The story centers on supernatural elements and psychological tension.

Present on Screen

Explores nuanced themes of moral ambiguity and situational ethics.
Offers a critical look at how grief is used for profit.

Limited or Absent

Does not meaningfully represent LGBTQ+ identities or queer influence.
Does not include racial or ethnic diversity in key roles.
Does not depict disability or neurodivergence with significant influence.

Official Synopsis

18th century justice catches up with a pair of grave robbers. With only a few hours to go before his date with the guillotine, Arthur Blake tells his life story to Father Francis Duffy. Before long, Arthur spills the beans on how he got started in the grim corpse peddling business with seasoned ghoul Willie Grimes.

How are these scores produced? →