Analysis of Limitless, showing conventions of Marxism and Feminism

Limitless

At the beginning of the trailer, the main protagonist (Eddie) does not conform to the typical stereotype of a male in this genre. We are introduced to a man who starts off as a low status citizen in New York City, with little money, power and authority, and it appears to be struggling with his life, whereas typically men within this genre of film, are associated with these things. Feminists are likely to respond quite positive to this this as it demonstrates that it is not just female characters that have to fight for equality, and that men can also be just as inferior as woman can be. A man struggling for equality in a way goes against stereotypical ideologies. However, by the end of the trailer, Eddie has manipulated some of the biggest business men in the world, and become incredibly rich and famous - and as a result, the hierarchy difference becomes more balanced, and so her becomes more equal. 

However, it could also suggest that if you are of a lower class, with little money, power isnt an option for you unless you cheat you way into the business. At the start of the trailer, the main protagonist, Eddie, states the reason 'Why he looks like this' is because he is 'a writer' suggesting that this job title hasn't got much hope, and because of the job you won't have much going for you, so potential lacks. The trailer also suggests that the only way to overcome this is to cheat cheat, ( In this case by using illegal drugs to make you more intelligent) and cheating will help you gain more authority. 

Feminists are likely to respond negatively to this trailer. The trailer shows a clear power divide between male and female characters. The female characters are not really associated with any business related power, except from Eddies boss, but she is only shown when her power is being challenged when he demands a raise. The majority of the dominant characters within the trailer are male, suggesting that women are less capable, and inferior to men. 

Women are also represented as quite shallow throughout the trailer. At the beginning of the trailer when the main character is a low class citizen with little money, women did not appear to be interested in him, however when he gained money, power, and fame, women seemed to be instantly attracted to him. This suggests that they are only willing to look twice when men have fast cars, expensive watches and private jets. 

Women also seem to be objectified in the trailer, as they only seem to appear when they are involved in sexual scenes, suggesting that they are only good for one thing, showing they are not powerful, just used.