You are here:

Crimes of the Heart

Crimes of the Heart

Representation Score

5.2/10

Fair

1986

PG-13

Director

Bruce Beresford

Runtime

105 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Crimes of the Heart is a character-driven domestic drama that excels in its focus on female-centric storytelling. By centering the plot on the shared decision-making and traumas of three sisters, the film successfully disrupts traditional patriarchal hierarchies. However, the film's impact is limited by a lack of multi-layered breadth. The narrative operates within a very narrow demographic framework, offering little representation for LGBTQ+ individuals or diverse racial and ethnic groups. Ultimately, while the film provides a sophisticated look at gendered emotional landscapes, it remains a localized study that lacks broader social and cultural diversity.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Crimes of the Heart have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not feature any prominent LGBTQ+ characters or storylines. The small Southern setting follows traditional structures without visible queer identities.

How does Crimes of the Heart portray gender?

Excellent

The narrative focuses on the internal lives and emotional landscapes of three sisters, emphasizing their ability to act and the complexities of sisterhood. It challenges traditional patriarchal expectations by prioritizing the experiences of women.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Crimes of the Heart?

Minimal

The cast is homogeneous, reflecting a specific Southern social context. There is a lack of racial or ethnic diversity, which limits the multi-layered breadth of the narrative.

How does Crimes of the Heart represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film explores moral ambiguity and situational ethics related to family secrets. However, it remains rooted in traditional Southern social structures and conventional ideological frameworks.

Does Crimes of the Heart include disability representation?

Limited

Psychological trauma and alcoholism are explored as character elements. However, there is no specific focus on disability as a central narrative driver or tool for empowerment.

Present on Screen

  • Strong focus on women's ability to drive the story and sisterhood.
  • Effective challenge to traditional patriarchal storytelling.
  • Nuanced exploration of complex female emotional landscapes.

Limited or Absent

  • Lack of racial and ethnic diversity among the cast.
  • Absence of LGBTQ+ representation or non-straight identities.
  • Limited focus on disability as a narrative driver.

Official Synopsis

Three sisters try to come to grips with the meaning of their mother's suicide.

How are these scores produced? →

Where to Watch

Rate this Movie

No rating selected
Use arrow keys to select a rating from 1 to 5 stars
Optional text review, maximum 2000 characters
Tip: Wrap spoilers with ||double pipes|| to hide them
0/2000 characters
You must be signed in to submit a rating

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!

Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.