Cast
View All
Jeremy Piven
as Don Ready
Ving Rhames
as Jibby Newsome
James Brolin
as Ben Selleck
David Koechner
as Brent Gage
Kathryn Hahn
as Babs Merrick
Ed Helms
as Paxton Harding
Jordana Spiro
as Ivy Selleck
Tony Hale
as Wade Zooha
Ken Jeong
as Teddy Dang
Rob Riggle
as Peter Selleck
Alan Thicke
as Stu Harding
Charles Napier
as Dick Lewiston
Jonathan Sadowski
as Blake
Noureen DeWulf
as Heather
Wendie Malick
as Tammy Selleck
Crew
Director
- Neal Brennan
Writer
- Andy Stock
- Rick Stempson
Producer
- Will Ferrell
- Chris Henchy
- Adam McKay
- Kevin J. Messick
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Neal Brennan 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2009, 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 Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $10.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 112 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 42 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Scooby-Doo, which focuses more on action than character development, The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Cheaper by the Dozen 2 and Scrooged explore similar territory, The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard 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: May 29, 2009
- Runtime: 1h 30m
- Budget: $10,000,000
- Revenue: $15,300,000
