You are here:

Thou Shalt Not Kill... Except

Name: Thou Shalt Not Kill... Except
Director: Josh Becker
Released: 1985
Duration: 84 min

Representation Score

3.6/10

Limited

1985

Director

Josh Becker

Runtime

84 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

This film operates within a genre-driven structure that emphasizes individual moral choices and philosophical inquiry over social or cultural representation. It introduces a unique, non-violent supernatural mechanic for its action hero but does so within a traditional framework. The narrative remains consistent with mid-1980s independent cinema, centered around a male protagonist and conventional gender dynamics. The absence of diverse casting or systemic critique results in lower representation scores. Ultimately, the film serves as a character study of morality rather than a tool for exploring diverse cultural identities.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Thou Shalt Not Kill... Except have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on a relationship between Jack Stryker and Sally that follows traditional romantic structures. It does not include characters with non-conforming gender identities or narratives that challenge these norms.

How does Thou Shalt Not Kill... Except portray gender?

Limited

Gender roles adhere to typical 1980s action-thriller clichés. The male lead drives the plot, while female characters play supporting or domestic roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Thou Shalt Not Kill... Except?

Limited

The setting seems to be a predominantly white, small-town environment. There is no indication of a racially diverse cast or ethnic representation.

How does Thou Shalt Not Kill... Except represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story examines moral relativism and situational ethics through supernatural elements. However, it avoids critiquing Western institutions such as religion or capitalism.

Does Thou Shalt Not Kill... Except include disability representation?

Limited

The protagonist faces physical trauma from his Vietnam-era injuries. There is no representation of neurodivergent individuals or actors with disabilities.

Present on Screen

Presents a unique, non-violent supernatural mechanic for an action hero.
Provides philosophical depth on free will and situational ethics.

Limited or Absent

Depends on traditional, heterosexual romantic structures and gender roles.
Lacks racial and ethnic diversity in its small-town setting.
Does not offer neurodivergent representation or meaningful disability involvement.

Official Synopsis

Jack Stryker took two bullets in the leg in Vietnam and was carried back by one of his men. When he returns, he tries to live a quiet life in his cabin and go back out with his girlfriend, Sally.

How are these scores produced? →