Watch Take Out

Take Out is a low-budget independent film that was released in 2007. Directed by Sean Baker and Shih-Ching Tsou, the movie centers around an illegal immigrant working at a Chinese take-out restaurant in New York City. The plot of the film takes place over the course of one day, during which the protagonist, Ming Ding (played by Charles Jang), is forced to come up with a large sum of money to pay off his smuggling debt. The film is shot in a gritty, hand-held style that evokes realism and immediacy.

Throughout the day, Ming takes on various delivery orders for the restaurant, while simultaneously trying to collect enough money to pay off his debt. He faces numerous obstacles along the way, including a language barrier, demanding customers, and a hostile boss.

One of the film’s strengths is its attention to detail in capturing the day-to-day routines and rituals of the take-out restaurant. The film’s co-director, Sean Baker, previously worked as a delivery driver for a Chinese take-out restaurant in New York City, which lends the film a sense of authenticity and realism.

The film also tackles a number of social issues, including immigrant rights, economic insecurity, and the exploitation of labor. Underlying the film’s plot is an exploration of the harsh and unforgiving conditions that many immigrants face in the United States, particularly those who are undocumented.

The film’s cast is primarily made up of non-professional actors, including Charles Jang, who previously worked as a delivery driver for a Chinese restaurant in real life. Jang’s performance as Ming is nuanced and sympathetic, as he struggles to navigate the challenges of his work and personal life.

The film’s supporting cast includes Mary Ann Emerson as the restaurant’s owner, Debbie Rochon as a customer, and Alexis Suarez as a fellow delivery driver. All deliver solid performances, with Rochon in particular bringing a sense of humor and sharp wit to her role.

One of the film’s most striking aspects is its cinematography, which is composed of a series of long takes that are shot in real time. These extended shots allow the viewer to feel as if they are right there with Ming, experiencing his frustrations and triumphs in the moment.

In addition to its visual style, the film also boasts a haunting and evocative soundtrack, composed by Qasim Naqvi. The music adds an eerie and atmospheric quality to the film, underscoring its themes of isolation and desperation.

Overall, Take Out is a thoughtful and engaging film that offers a compelling look at the struggles of undocumented immigrants in the United States. It is a film that is gritty and authentic, with a strong sense of realism that offers a glimpse into a world that is often overlooked in mainstream cinema.