You are here:

Degree of Murder

Name: Degree of Murder
Director: Volker Schlöndorff
Released: 1967
Duration: 87 min

Representation Score

2.9/10

Limited

1967

Director

Volker Schlöndorff

Runtime

87 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Degree of Murder is a film defined by its historical context and its critique of systemic issues rather than broad demographic representation. It explores moral decay within a homogeneous, white, middle-class German society during the 1930s. The film lacks representation for LGBTQ+ identities and racial minorities, reflecting the narrow social lens of its setting. However, it achieves depth through its sophisticated deconstruction of institutional integrity and the rule of law. Ultimately, the work prioritizes a profound exploration of how systemic corruption affects individual ethics in a decaying social order over demographic diversity.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Degree of Murder have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on the relationship between the female protagonist and male characters, adhering to the heterosexual norms of its 1930s setting.

How does Degree of Murder portray gender?

Fair

The female lead drives the main conflict, but the film operates within a patriarchal structure that emphasizes traditional gender roles and male-dominated legal systems.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Degree of Murder?

Minimal

The cast is primarily made up of white actors, reflecting the historical makeup of the 1930s German professional class, with no significant presence of minority characters.

How does Degree of Murder represent religion and culture?

Good

The film effectively critiques Western institutions and the state apparatus, portraying the legal system as corrupt and involved in the rise of totalitarianism.

Does Degree of Murder include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no characters with visible or invisible disabilities used as plot devices or central figures in the film.

Present on Screen

Provides a sophisticated critique of traditional Western institutions and the state apparatus.
Offers a nuanced exploration of how systemic corruption impacts individual morality.
Effectively deconstructs the stability of national institutions and the rule of law.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-conforming gender expressions.
Features a predominantly homogeneous cast with minimal racial or ethnic diversity.
Reinforces traditional gender roles within a patriarchal framework.

Official Synopsis

After accidentally killing her ex-lover during a fight, Marie enlists the help of a stranger and his friend to dispose of the body while becoming intimate with both men.

How are these scores produced? →