
The Crimes That Bind
2020

2017
TV-MADirector
Grayson Moore, Aidan Shipley
Runtime
84 minutes
Average Rating
No ratings yetSynopsis
When Valerie returns home from prison years after killing her neighbour in an apparent drunk driving accident, she wants nothing more than to move on - until the deceased's son shows up at her door and it becomes clear that the past is not easily forgotten.
Overall Score
Limited
Category Breakdown
LGBTQ+ Representation
The film lacks any mention of LGBTQ+ characters or narratives. The story focuses entirely on the interpersonal conflict between Valerie and the victim's son.
Gender Representation
Valerie serves as a central female protagonist with significant agency. However, it is unclear if the film subverts gender hierarchies or reinforces them through her portrayal.
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
There is no information regarding the racial or ethnic composition of the cast. The narrative focuses on individual psychological dynamics rather than racial identity.
Religious & Cultural Diversity
The story explores personal accountability and social reintegration. It leans toward a traditional morality of cause and effect rather than critiquing specific cultural or religious structures.
Disability Representation
The synopsis provides no indication of characters living with physical, sensory, or neurodivergent disabilities.
Strengths
Areas for Improvement
AI Analysis
Cardinals is a character-driven psychological thriller that prioritizes themes of guilt, retribution, and trauma over demographic exploration. The narrative structure centers on the cyclical nature of consequence following a fatal drunk driving accident. Because the plot focuses on the specific interpersonal tension between a former inmate and a victim's relative, there is little room for systemic or intersectional commentary. The film operates within traditional crime-drama tropes rather than using identity as a narrative driver. Ultimately, the film lacks explicit evidence of diverse representation, resulting in a score that reflects a narrow focus on individual psychological tension.
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