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Mojave Phone Booth

Mojave Phone Booth (2006)

Jul 21, 2006 1h 28m Drama Mystery

In the middle of the Mojave desert rests an abandoned phone booth, riddled with bullet holes, graffiti, its windows broken, but otherwise functioning. Its identity was born on the Internet and for years, travelers would make the trek down a lonely dirt road and camp next to the booth, in the hopes that it might suddenly ring, and they could connect with a stranger (often from another country) on the other end of the line. This is the story of four disparate people whose lives intersect with this mystical outpost, and the comfort they seek from a stranger's voice: There is Beth, a troubled woman facing dilemmas with her love-life and a recurring, baffling crime; Mary, a young South African, who is contemplating selling her body for the funds to escape her dreadful existence; Alex, a woman who is losing her lover, Glory, to the belief she is plagued by aliens, and Richard, driven into desperation by a separation from his wife, who happens upon the booth after his failed suicide attempt.

Directed by John Putch

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • John Putch
Writer
  • John Putch
  • Jerry Rapp
Producer
  • John Putch
  • Jerry Rapp
  • Jerry P. Jacobs

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Mojave Phone Booth 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 John Putch 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 Mojave Phone Booth took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
  • The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The film contains approximately 2116 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 2006, when this film is released:
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • 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 Mojave Phone Booth 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 Lovers, which focuses more on action than character development, Mojave Phone Booth offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Pierrot le Fou and Local Color explore similar territory, Mojave Phone Booth 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: July 21, 2006
  • Runtime: 1h 28m

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