Cast
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Crew
Director
- Gregory Cooke
Writer
- Christopher Landon
Producer
- Gregory Cooke
- Line Postmyr
Reviews
Charles Tatum
Teenage Scott (Erik MacArthur) is presented with thirty dollar teen prostitute Emily (Sara Gilbert) on his birthday, and she figures out why he is not interested in her. The final film is also a good effort, with MacArthur and Gilbert scoring major indie film points, and they have a really nice chemistry. Emily's character is not delved into much, because this is not her story. Cooke's direction is fine, if not a bit awkward here and there, and Christopher Landon's script is smart- watch for the inside joke concerning Emily's choice of TV viewing habits. A solid entry.
Oct 1, 2023
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, $30 examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Gregory Cooke 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 1999, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of $30 took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 20 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 69 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 63 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 180 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1999, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While $30 shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Pornomelancholia, which focuses more on action than character development, $30 offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Martha and the Bird and The Darkest Hour explore similar territory, $30 stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: January 1, 1999
- Runtime: 20m
