Cast
View AllJohn Mulaney
as John Mulaney
Jake Gyllenhaal
as Mr. Music
Annaleigh Ashford
as Crying Lady
Natasha Lyonne
as Natasha Lyonne
David Byrne
as David Byrne
Richard Kind
as Richard Kind
André De Shields
as The Tutor
Alexander Bello
as Alex
Tyler Bourke
as Tyler
Ava Briglia
as Ava
Cordelia Comando
as Cordelia
Camille De La Cruz
as Camille
Oriah Elgrabli
as Oriah
Jake Ryan Flynn
as Jake
Orson Hong
as Orson
Crew
Director
- Rhys Thomas
Writer
- John Mulaney
- Marika Sawyer
Producer
- Kerri Hundley
- Mary Beth Minthorn
- Corey Deckler
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Rhys Thomas 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 2019, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 70 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 91 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 33 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 834 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2019, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Everyone Says I Love You, which focuses more on action than character development, John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Freddy and the Millionaire and Heute hau'n wir auf die Pauke explore similar territory, John Mulaney & The Sack Lunch Bunch 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: December 24, 2019
- Runtime: 1h 10m
Where to Watch

