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The Possession

Name: The Possession
Director: Julio Bracho
Released: 1950
Duration: 105 min

Representation Score

4.7/10

Fair

1950

Director

Julio Bracho

Runtime

105 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Julio Bracho’s *La posesión* is a classic psychological melodrama that emphasizes mid-century social norms and individual obsession. While it offers significant cultural representation through its Mexican origin and cast, the narrative remains conservative in its social outlook. The film's exploration of human obsession is centered on traditional hierarchies. Women and those experiencing psychological distress are used primarily to advance the central conflict of land ownership and male instability, rather than being presented as complex, independent subjects.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Possession have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film doesn't include any LGBTQ+ identities or same-sex relationships. It follows the assumption that everyone is straight and cisgender, typical of 1950s melodramas.

How does The Possession portray gender?

Fair

Female characters mainly serve as catalysts for male characters' psychological issues and desires. They don't have much independence or control over their own lives.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Possession?

Good

The film features a predominantly Mexican cast and setting, highlighting non-Anglo-Saxon identities. However, it focuses on class and land disputes rather than exploring multiple aspects of identity.

How does The Possession represent religion and culture?

Limited

The plot centers on property and social status, emphasizing the importance of social stability. It doesn’t challenge capitalist or religious norms.

Does The Possession include disability representation?

Limited

Psychological instability is used as a plot device to drive the drama. These elements don't provide nuanced portrayals of mental health experiences.

Present on Screen

Provides essential representation through its Mexican origin and predominantly Mexican cast.
Offers a sophisticated approach to psychological tension and melodrama.

Limited or Absent

Lacks significant roles for female characters, who mainly serve as objects of male obsession.
Uses psychological instability as a narrative tool rather than a nuanced portrayal of mental health.
Doesn't explore multiple aspects of identity or challenge colonial hierarchies.

Official Synopsis

Two old friends get hinky with each other over the deed to a tract of land, and their children's engagement gets broken over it.

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