

Movie spotlight
Cost of Living
As we live through the deepest cost of living crisis for over fifty years, archive footage of Yorkshire and the North East reflects recurring cycles of boom and bust, and the fury of generations whose essential needs for safe housing, secure work and full bellies go unfulfilled. Increased fuel prices, food banks and government tips for saving money bring a sense of déjà vu -- a past that feels uncomfortably contemporary.
Insights
Plot Summary
In a near-future world grappling with economic collapse and social unrest, a struggling former boxer takes on a dangerous job as a corporate enforcer. He finds himself drawn into a complex web of loyalty, betrayal, and a fight for survival against overwhelming odds. As the lines between right and wrong blur, he must confront his own demons and decide where his true allegiances lie in a system designed to break him.
Critical Reception
Cost of Living received a mixed to positive reception, with critics praising its gritty atmosphere and strong performances, particularly from Ebon Moss-Bachrach. However, some found the pacing uneven and the plot somewhat predictable. Audience reactions were generally favorable, appreciating the film's action sequences and its exploration of class struggle in a dystopian setting.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its intense action and gritty realism.
Ebon Moss-Bachrach delivers a compelling performance.
Some critics found the narrative formulaic and the pacing inconsistent.
Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's intense action and the lead actor's performance, with many finding it a satisfyingly dark and gritty viewing experience. Some noted that while the story followed familiar tropes, the execution was strong enough to maintain engagement.
Fun Fact
The film's distinctive visual style was achieved through a combination of practical effects and minimalist CGI, aiming for a grounded and gritty aesthetic that reflects the bleakness of its near-future setting.
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