Verdict:Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 4.5/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Crime, Comedy genre.
Answer: Maybe not, Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive is likely a skip if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 83 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Last updated: January 12, 2026
Released in 1989, Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive enters the Crime genre with a narrative focused on A man is hired by a group of people he believes to be gangsters to escort a briefcase from America to Hong Kong. Under the direction of Wayne Wang, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from Victor Wong Chi-Keung. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
From a technical standpoint, Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Beyond the narrative, Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive resonates with current cultural themes in the Crime space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
As of early 2026, Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive is available for streaming on Eternal Family. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
The plot of Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive centers on a unique premise within the Crime landscape. A man is hired by a group of people he believes to be gangsters to escort a briefcase from America to Hong Kong. When he arrives, however, his contact is nowhere to be found. With no further instructions, he decides to take in the sights of Hong Kong, which consist of him taking part in a great deal of blood, sex and general weirdness, all while wearing a briefcase handcuffed to his arm. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1989 cinema will find fairly predictable.
The ending of Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final verdict for Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive (1989): with an audience rating of 4.5/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Crime, Comedy cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Eternal FamilyAnalyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.5/10, and global collection metrics, Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1989 cinematic year.
Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.5/10 and lower collections.
Based on the low rating of 4.5/10, Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive is currently available for streaming on Eternal Family. You can also check for it on platforms like Eternal Family depending on your region.
Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.5/10 and lower collections.
Based on the low rating of 4.5/10, Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive is currently available for streaming on Eternal Family. You can also check for it on platforms like Eternal Family depending on your region.
Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive is a Crime, Comedy movie that follows: A man is hired by a group of people he believes to be gangsters to escort a briefcase from America to Hong Kong. When he arrives, however, his contact is nowhere to be found. With no further instructi...
Yes, Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive is generally suitable for family viewing as it is a Crime, Comedy movie.
Life Is Cheap... But Toilet Paper Is Expensive is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
A man is hired by a group of people he believes to be gangsters to escort a briefcase from America to Hong Kong. When he arrives, however, his contact is nowhere to be found. With no further instructions, he decides to take in the sights of Hong Kong, which consist of him taking part in a great deal of blood, sex and general weirdness, all while wearing a briefcase handcuffed to his arm.
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