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Living Is What Matters

Name: Living Is What Matters
Director: Luis Alcoriza
Released: 1987
Duration: 112 min

Representation Score

3.8/10

Limited

1987

Director

Luis Alcoriza

Runtime

112 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Luis Alcoriza uses a character-driven study of social transgression to undermine the sanctity of the landed aristocracy. While the film lacks modern identity-based representation, such as LGBTQ+ or neurodivergent characters, it successfully challenges class and patriarchal hierarchies. The romantic conflict serves as a tool to disrupt the stability of rigid socio-economic systems. Ultimately, the film provides a satirical look at how interpersonal upheaval can challenge established power structures.

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Category Breakdown

Does Living Is What Matters have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film focuses on traditional heterosexual relationships without including any characters with LGBTQ+ identities.

How does Living Is What Matters portray gender?

Fair

The wife plays a significant role in driving systemic change rather than being a passive figure. Her affair with a subordinate challenges the patriarchal control of the landowner.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Living Is What Matters?

Good

The story highlights class-based hierarchies common in Latin American contexts. The laborer's rise to an indispensable role challenges the perceived superiority of the landed elite.

How does Living Is What Matters represent religion and culture?

Good

The narrative critiques traditional colonial institutions like the hacienda system. It centers on transgressions against established property and family structures, favoring a subjective morality.

Does Living Is What Matters include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no information available regarding the portrayal of physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Present on Screen

Challenges traditional patriarchal hierarchies by giving the wife a leading role.
Critiques rigid class structures and the colonial hacienda system.
Uses romantic conflict to challenge the stability of the landed elite.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or queer narratives.
Provides no information regarding disability or neurodivergent representation.

Official Synopsis

A drifter named Candelario asks to spend the night at the hacienda of Don Lazaro. Once there, he gets the offer to stay and work as a laborer with a fixed salary. Over time, Candelario is gaining the confidence of his employer, and becomes indispensable. The situation will change radically when Don Lazarus discovers that Candelario is having a love affair with his wife.

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