Cast
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Roberto Benigni
as Roberto (segment "Strange to Meet You")
Steven Wright
as Steven (segment "Strange to Meet You")
Joie Lee
as Good Twin (segment "Twins")
Cinqué Lee
as Evil Twin (segment "Twins") / Kitchen Guy (segment "Jack...")
Steve Buscemi
as Danny (segment "Twins")
Iggy Pop
as Iggy (segment "Somewhere in California")
Tom Waits
as Tom (segment "Somewhere in California")
Joseph Rigano
as Joe (segment "Those Things'll Kill Ya")
Vinny Vella
as Vinny (segment "Those Things'll Kill Ya")
Vinny Vella, Jr.
as Vinny Jr. (segment "Those Things'll Kill Ya")
Renée French
as Renée (segment "Renée")
E.J. Rodriguez
as Waiter (segment "Renée")
Alex Descas
as Alex (segment "No Problem")
Isaach de Bankolé
as Isaach (segment "No Problem")
Cate Blanchett
as Cate / Shelly (segment "Cousins")
Crew
Director
- Jim Jarmusch
Producer
- Joana Vicente
- Jason Kliot
- Demetra J. MacBride
- Rudd Simmons
- Jim Stark
- Cassis Birgit Staudt
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Coffee and Cigarettes 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 Jim Jarmusch 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 2004, 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 Coffee and Cigarettes took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 118 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2207 individual shots.
- The musical score contains over 41 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2004, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- 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 Coffee and Cigarettes shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Romy and Michele's High School Reunion, which focuses more on action than character development, Coffee and Cigarettes subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Spider and The Jacket explore similar territory, Coffee and Cigarettes 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: March 12, 2004
- Runtime: 1h 37m
- Revenue: $7,897,645
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