Cast
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William H. Macy
as Bernie Lootz
Alec Baldwin
as Shelly Kaplow
Maria Bello
as Natalie Belisario
Shawn Hatosy
as Mikey
Ron Livingston
as Larry Sokolov
Paul Sorvino
as Buddy Stafford
Estella Warren
as Charlene
Arthur J. Nascarella
as Nicky Fingers Bonnatto
Joey Fatone
as Johnny Cappella
M.C. Gainey
as Highway Officer
Ellen Greene
as Doris
Don Scribner
as Lou
Tony Longo
as Tony
Richard Israel
as Marty Goldfarb
Timothy Landfield
as The Player
Crew
Director
- Wayne Kramer
Producer
- Sean Furst
- Michael A. Pierce
Reviews
CinemaSerf
“Bernie” (William H. Macy) is the casino equivalent of “Eeyore”. He sits beside the gamblers and makes sure that his doom and gloom philosophy wears off on them and they lose cash. No, it doesn’t sound very scientific but his boss “Shelley” (Alec Baldwin) believes in it and as they cleared $32 millions there last year, well maybe he is right. This technique is one of a few, though, that are causing the gangster owners to begin to consider if maybe there needs to be changes and so now would not be a good time for “Bernie” to move on. Suddenly, he encounters “Natalie” (Maria Bello) to whom he immediately takes a shine and you can only imagine his shock when she reciprocates. Quickly, they begin to fall for each other but isn’t all of this just a little too convenient? Just to add to the confusion, son “Mikey” (Shawn Hatosy) shows up with his expectant girlfriend and clumsily has a go at fleecing the tables! With these storylines gradually knitting together we have to wonder if any of them have any chance of finding happiness or fulfilment. Macy is perfectly cast for this, with his innate hangdog expression and his conveying of a plausible sense of amazement when he manages to hook up with “Natalie”. The rest of it, though, is a bit predictable and the latter half increasingly peters out as nobody quite seems to know how they want this to end. When it does, there’s something straight out of Buster Keaton mixed with a dose of Martin Scorsese that I though a bit daft. It’s watchable enough, but Baldwin exudes all the menace of a meringue and I found it just a bit disappointing.
Feb 21, 2025
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Cooler 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 Wayne Kramer 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 2003, 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 The Cooler took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $4.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 101 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 146 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 79 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2003, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Cooler shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Bonfire of the Vanities, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Cooler subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Just My Luck and Rollin' with the Nines explore similar territory, The Cooler stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: November 26, 2003
- Runtime: 1h 41m
- Budget: $4,000,000
- Revenue: $10,400,000
Where to Watch
