You are here:

The Cost of Living

Name: The Cost of Living
Director: Rafael Montero
Released: 1989
Duration: 95 min

Representation Score

7.7/10

Good

1989

TV-14

Director

Rafael Montero

Runtime

95 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

The film 'The Cost of Living' stands out as a character-driven story that challenges traditional gender roles. By emphasizing Patricia's personal growth and independence, it offers a refreshing take on female empowerment. Its thematic depth explores moral relativism and the failures of Western institutions, adding complexity to the crime drama genre. However, the film lacks broader representation, particularly in LGBTQ+ themes, disability, and detailed racial diversity.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does The Cost of Living have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film focuses on the relationship between Miguel and Patricia but does not include any LGBTQ+ themes or narratives involving non-straight identities.

How does The Cost of Living portray gender?

Good

Patricia plays a significant role in driving the story, showing independence and growth that challenges traditional gender stereotypes. She outshines the male protagonist, providing a fresh perspective on female empowerment.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Cost of Living?

Fair

The film highlights urban settings that are not centered around Anglo culture. However, it does not provide specific details about the racial makeup of the cast.

How does The Cost of Living represent religion and culture?

Good

The story critiques capitalist systems and the moral compromises made due to economic needs. It portrays systemic pressures as a cause of social tension.

Does The Cost of Living include disability representation?

Fair

The plot centers on socioeconomic and interpersonal issues. It does not feature any characters with visible or invisible disabilities playing central roles.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional gender stereotypes by highlighting Patricia's independent journey.
Offers a nuanced exploration of moral relativism and situational ethics.
Critiques capitalist structures and the impact of economic pressures.

Limited or Absent

Could benefit from including LGBTQ+ themes and narratives.
Needs to address representation of characters with disabilities.
Should provide more detailed information about racial and ethnic diversity.

Official Synopsis

This is a prophetic drama about a young couple, Miguel and Patricia, who desperately need money and are forced to commit robbery -- until the fear they experience during their second hold-up forces them to flee. They run away together, but their relationship is tested when Patricia begins to see new possibilities in her life, while Miguel remains stuck in his old ways.

How are these scores produced? →