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The Reward

Name: The Reward
Director: Serge Bourguignon
Released: 1965
Duration: 92 min

Representation Score

3.2/10

Limited

1965

Approved

Director

Serge Bourguignon

Runtime

92 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

The Reward stands out for its commitment to cultural diversity, moving beyond the homogeneity of mid-century Western cinema. By using a Himalayan setting and local actors, the film creates a meaningful encounter between different cultures without relying on mere exoticism. However, the film remains tied to the social norms of its time. It lacks LGBTQ+ representation and progressive gender roles, sticking to traditional interpersonal dynamics. Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its atmospheric exploration of non-Western cultures, presenting a complex, non-Western reality.

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Category Breakdown

Does The Reward have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or show same-sex relationships. The interpersonal dynamics focus on traditional family and friendship connections.

How does The Reward portray gender?

Fair

Female characters play a key role in the protagonist's development but remain within traditional social roles. The film upholds conventional gender roles without challenging male dominance.

How racially and ethnically diverse is The Reward?

Good

The film achieves high ethnic diversity by focusing on Western protagonists interacting with Tibetan locals. Using local actors adds authenticity and breaks away from mid-century Anglo-centric views.

How does The Reward represent religion and culture?

Fair

The story moves away from a single Christian perspective by showcasing Tibetan Buddhist practices. It presents a complex, non-Western culture as a central theme.

Does The Reward include disability representation?

Minimal

The film does not prominently depict any visible or invisible disabilities. No characters have disabilities as a central part of their story.

Present on Screen

High ethnic diversity through the use of local Tibetan actors.
Avoids the typical Anglo-centric lens common in mid-century Western cinema.
Presents a complex, non-Western reality as a central theme.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of LGBTQ+ identities or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth characters.
Adheres to conventional gender roles without challenging traditional hierarchies.
Does not include any visible or invisible disability representation.

Official Synopsis

A crash-landed crop-duster betrays a fugitive and his girlfriend to Mexican bounty hunters.

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