Backdrop preview Barbershop backdrop
Barbershop

Barbershop (2002)

Apr 01, 2002 1h 42m Comedy Drama

A day in the life of a barbershop on the south side of Chicago. Calvin, who inherited the struggling business from his deceased father, views the shop as nothing but a burden and waste of his time. After selling the shop to a local loan shark, Calvin slowly begins to see his father's vision and legacy and struggles with the notion that he just sold it out.

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Directed by Tim Story

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Tim Story
Producer
  • Mark Brown
  • George Tillman Jr.
  • Robert Teitel

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Barbershop examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Tim Story brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Barbershop took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $12.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 102 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 161 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 102 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The film contains approximately 964 individual shots.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 2002, when this film is released:
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While Barbershop shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Stuck Together, which focuses more on action than character development, Barbershop subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Ladies in Lavender and A Walk in the Clouds explore similar territory, Barbershop stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: April 1, 2002
  • Runtime: 1h 42m
  • Budget: $12,000,000
  • Revenue: $77,063,924

Where to Watch

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