Watch Clockwatchers
- PG-13
- 1997
- 1 hr 36 min
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6.6 (6,707)
Clockwatchers is a 1997 indie film that tells the story of a group of women who work as temporary employees in an office. The movie begins with Iris (Toni Collette) being hired as a temp and arriving at the office to find that the other temps, Margaret (Parker Posey) and Paula (Lisa Kudrow), are already there. The three women immediately hit it off and become close friends. They bond over their shared experiences as temps, including the uncertainty and insecurity that comes with not having a permanent job. They also commiserate over the mundane tasks they are given, such as filing and data entry, and the condescension they receive from their permanent colleagues.
As the film progresses, the women begin to notice that some items in the office are going missing. They suspect that someone is stealing from the company and they become amateur detectives, trying to catch the culprit. In the process, they get closer to each other and learn more about themselves.
Iris is the most reserved of the three women, but she is also the most ambitious. She dreams of having a permanent job and a successful career. Margaret, on the other hand, is a bit of a rebel. She speaks her mind and doesn't care what others think of her. Paula is the naive one, always eager to please and desperate for approval.
The film is a character study of these three women and the other office workers. It explores the themes of identity, friendship, and the human desire for connection. The women are all searching for meaning and purpose in their lives, but they are hampered by the limitations of their jobs and the expectations placed on them by society. They are also frustrated by the lack of power they have in the workplace.
Clockwatchers is a slow-paced movie that relies on the strength of its characters to carry the story. The performances by Collette, Posey, and Kudrow are all excellent, particularly Posey's fiery and unpredictable portrayal of Margaret. The supporting cast is also strong, with actresses like Alanna Ubach and Helen Fitzgerald adding depth to their roles.
The film is not without its flaws, however. The pacing can be sluggish at times, and the storyline about the missing items is not particularly gripping. Nevertheless, Clockwatchers is a worthwhile watch for anyone interested in character-driven stories about female friendship and workplace dynamics.
Clockwatchers was directed by Jill Sprecher and co-written by her and her sister Karen. It was released in 1997 to critical acclaim but limited commercial success. Over the years, it has developed a cult following and is often cited as an underrated gem of the indie film scene.
In conclusion, Clockwatchers is a well-acted and introspective film that offers a unique perspective on the lives of temporary workers. While it may not be for everyone, those who enjoy character studies and stories about female friendship will likely find it engaging.
Clockwatchers is a 1997 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6 and a MetaScore of 64.