A video series about the small things that make films great. This episode features James Foley's 1992 drama Glengarry Glen Ross, starring Al Pacino and Jack Lemmon.
I love how Levene lectures Williamson about loyalty to your partner and then, under pressure, unhesitatingly reveals Moss's role in the crime; also how Levene's entire critique of Williamson is about being able to think and talk fast on your feet, yet it's his own running at the mouth that provides the clue Williamson needs to figure out Shelly's involvement in the crime!
Great vid! I worked in sales for most of last decade and it's sobering to see all the arch types of the sales office represented in this movie. The other thing they go spot on was the mentality of alot of the people in sales I worked with plus some of the tricks I used myself. Among the best movies Hollywood ever did.
I'm a salesmen. And when I lose my motivation... Especially on a hot, rainy night... I watch this excellent film and talk along with all the great lines. The sad truth is, even in a small office like mine, us salesmen are such Aholes to each other. I used to hate it, but when I saw this and Wolf of Wall street, I guess it's the tension and stress???? Just the other day... Someone pointed out we were out of paper towels, and my manager looked at me and said "what are you stealing paper towels and taking them home!?" And then laughed with the boss. I've even had the boss throw paper back at me and tell me to do it properly lol. It still makes me feel a little shitty.... But then when I think of Glengary I just smile and realise it's sadly a part of the job. The hustle of the job, the big paychecks and weekends relaxing and celebrating make it all the worth it.
I have wondered what is the true motivation behind Blake and his diatribe. He could have just plainly stated there is a new sales program handed down from Mitch and Murray, and left it at that. Instead, he completely goes nuts and rips on the sales team to no end. But he clearly states, “If you can’t take this abuse how can you take the abuse you get on a sit?” He is just informing the others that abuse is part of the job and they better get used to it.
It's a brilliant performance. It showcases a salesman in decline - reeking of desperation and indeed coming on way too hard. He can't help himself. It appears his only family is his hospitalized daughter and he can barely keep up with the payments for her hospital care. It's really an amazing movie - it makes me despise yet feel sorry for these salesman at the same time!
