Cast
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Morgan Freeman
as 'Him'
Paz Vega
as Scarlet
Jonah Hill
as Packy
Bobby Cannavale
as Bobby
Anne Dudek
as Lorraine
Jennifer Echols
as Tracey with an 'E'
Leonardo Nam
as Kid at Target
Kumar Pallana
as Lee
Jim Parsons
as Receptionist
Alexandra Berardi
as Mop Lady
Hector Atreyu Ruiz
as Gangbanger in Lowrider
Danny DeVito
as Big D
Rhea Perlman
as Mrs. D
Alexis Hernandez
as Cowed Customer
Silvia Curiel
as Shocked Customer
Crew
Director
- Brad Silberling
Producer
- Julie Lynn
- Lori McCreary
- Brad Silberling
Reviews
Wuchak
A small film that somehow restores your faith in life, in people, in, well,… everything
RELEASED IN 2006 and written & directed by Brad Silberling, “10 Items or Less” is a drama about an aged has-been actor (Morgan Freeman) who researches for an indie gig after a four-year dry spell. He meets a spitfire checkout clerk named Scarlet (Paz Vega) at a supermarket in a Latino community of Los Angeles. Impressed by the young woman, he decides to help her while psyching-up for the role.
The plot is obviously borrowed from 2003’s “Lost in Translation.” To key you off, the girl is named after Scarlett Johansson. But don’t let that keep you from seeing this minor gem because the characters are very different, plus other nuances. For instance, Morgan’s character (simply called “Him” in the cast list) reflects the “joy of living” (joie de vivre) as opposed to Bill Murray’s amusing curmudgeon in “Lost in Translation.”
Moreover, “10 Items” is less melancholy; and the girl isn’t naïve and overly sweet like Charlotte (Johansson) in “Lost.” It’s a small film, with the end credits rolling a mere ten minutes after the hour mark, and so it lacks the depth of “Lost” and isn’t as moving (at least as far as pulling your romantic heartstrings), but it’s more heartwarming and overall inspiring.
THE MOVIE RUNS 1 hour 21 minutes and was shot in Brentwood, Los Angeles, and nearby Carson (to the south).
GRADE: A-
Mar 27, 2018
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, 10 Items or Less 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 Brad Silberling 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 2006, 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 10 Items or Less took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 81 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2006, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While 10 Items or Less shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Annie Hall, which focuses more on action than character development, 10 Items or Less offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Kuhle Wampe or Who Owns the World? and Shrek the Third explore similar territory, 10 Items or Less stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 11, 2006
- Runtime: 1h 21m
- Budget: $400
- Revenue: $1
Where to Watch
