An occupation in sales can be a very stressful one. To eat, one must produce. To produce, some may resort to unsavory tactics.
Sales bosses can be overbearing tyrants, who feel compelled to practice manipulation in ways that their own sales force could never imagine. Here for illustration are two exceptional films on the subject.

Salesman

Albert and David Maysles’ Salesman (1969) is a great example of early American cinema verit’ (roughly translated as ’cinema of truth’). Also known as an example of ’direct cinema,’ the documentary captures a traveling Bible sales team on the road while they ’pitch’ to people in their homes. The salesmen have curiously given each other animal nicknames, such as Rabbit, Bear and Badger. Salesman was shot on black and white film with a handheld camera, and predominantly used only available light.

The Maysles Brothers enjoyed international acclaim with this film, and influenced many filmmakers who followed.

Glengarry Glen Ross

Adapted from David Mamet’s award winning play, Glengarry Glen Ross (1992) just might be one of the greatest ensemble films to date. The chief players are Jack Lemmon, Al Pacino, Ed Harris, Alan Arkin, Kevin Spacey, Alec Baldwin and Jonathan Pryce.

Glengarry Glen Ross has few sets and feels very much like a play. The performances are mesmerizing and the dialogue is fantastic. A lot of thought and dedication went into the making of this film, and it shines because of it.

Until next time, I hope you have a great viewing experience.  Comments are welcomed at cinespire@gmail.com.