On the podcast this week, Steven and Sean are throwing one last rager and really, really, really not looking forward to tomorrow while we talk about the very heavy 2002 film from Spike Lee, 25th Hour.
If you only had one single day of freedom left before being sent away to prison for seven whole years, what would you do with that time? Would you have the greatest party ever? Would you make sure everyone in your life knows they’re loved by you? Would your run, assume a new identity, and live out the rest of your days as a fugitive from the law?
Those are the big questions at the center of this film. Our main character, Monty Brogan (what an amazing name, right?), got big time busted dealing some pretty serious drugs and now has just twenty-four hours before he has to report for a seven year prison term. Seven years! Talk about a crazy amount of time to be locked away from his family, friends, and the woman he loves.
Oh, also his wonderful dog, Doyle.
Coming soon after the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, this film depicts a place that’s been forever transformed. The characters here float through their days, sometimes literally, in a haze of confusion, fear, and occasionally some Bacchanalian revelry. Hey, who doesn’t want to blow off some steam in a nightclub when the whole world has come crashing down around you?
We were fascinated by the story and characters of this movie. There’s not a whole lot of happiness to be found in it, mostly just tension, but you’ll witness some intense examinations of real people. From the desperation found in Monty to the sad chaos inside his friends to the cracking facades put on by his father and girlfriend, there’s nothing but raw emotion. We found this one to have performances that should be taught in acting classes. It’s just that good.
(Recorded on August 13, 2020)
Links to Stuff We Mentioned:
Champagne for my real friends, real pain for my sham friends - Wikipedia
Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town | Mariah Carey - YouTube
World Trade Center - Wikipedia
Spike Lee - The Dolly Shot - YouTube
Toddler Besties Share Huge Hug on Sidewalk - YouTube
Store Manager Lists World’s Last BLOCKBUSTER on Airbnb for Local Residents - Airbnb Newsroom