In the world of film an television, the correlation between space and social standing is strikingly apparent. Having worked on over 23 productions in the last 5 years I've observed a clear connection between wealth and geographical locations in the narratives we create. This isn't just a casual observation; it's a trend that shapes how characters are portrayed and how we perceive them in the stories we tell.

We often see wealthy characters enclosed in luxurious settings - think grand mansions perched on a hill or penthouse that looks over a sprawling cityscape. This positioning of isn't just about aesthetics; it reflects an unconscious hierachy that places affluent individuals literally and figuratively above those in less fortunate circumstances. It then raises an intriguing question: what does this spatial arrangement say about the societal views on wealth and status?

The Subconscious Connection

The choice to place wealthy characters in elevated spaces speaks to a deeper, often subconscious association with height and power. This narrative trope echoes historical patterns, where castles on hills serve as symbols of protection and dominance over the surrounding peasantry. We can clearly see this in Parasite (2019) by Bon Joon Ho, who used our understanding of this hierarchical status to explore the darker allure of a luxurious lifestyle for those in a less fortunate situation. The story follows the Kim family desperate to leave the squalor of their poor and peasantry life, they slowly find work for themselves with the wealthy Park family living on the hill. Eventually the whole Kim family finds a way to insert themselves into the Park's world of wealth, living a parasitic lifestyle. Are we; in our contemporary storytelling, simply recycling medieval ideas about status and wealth without fully considering the implications?

These creative choices can reinforce stereotypes, positing wealthy characters as superior and those in lower economic brackets as lesser. This dynamic not only affects how we view these characters but also shapes audience perceptions of wealth and power in real life. As storytellers, we have a responsibility to scutinise these creative choices and consider their impact.

Questioning the Status Quo

It’s essential to explore these dynamics more thoughtfully. What if we used the medium of film and television to challenge the traditional narratives of wealth and status? Instead of simply replicating familiar tropes, we could delve deeper into the complexities of these relationships.

For instance, how might a story shift if the wealthy characters weren’t always placed in elevated positions? By experimenting with space and its meaning, we could highlight the nuances of socioeconomic dynamics and offer fresh perspectives that go beyond surface-level stereotypes.

A Platform for Reflection

Film and television offer a unique platform for experimentation. They allow us to engage with societal issues in a low-stakes environment, challenging the status quo and provoking thought among viewers. This medium is perfectly suited for exploring the often-unquestioned beliefs we hold about wealth and status—beliefs that, when scrutinized, reveal a rich tapestry of social dynamics.

In conclusion, as creators, we should embrace the opportunity to investigate and reflect on the connections between space, wealth, and social standing. By doing so, we can push the boundaries of storytelling, encouraging audiences to think critically about the narratives they consume. The spaces we create in film and television are more than mere backdrops; they are integral to understanding the societal structures that shape our world. Let’s strive to tell stories that not only entertain but also challenge and inspire.

-An opinion piece by Ara Nuri Steel

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Height of Wealth