2023, Movie Protagonists Have Had Enough of Work!

As we wrap up 2023, let's be real— the last working day of the year feels a bit like this:

Or maybe, it feels like this:

Or it could even be like:

Or perhaps it feels more like:

Yep, these screenshots above are from this year's blockbuster films making a splash at film festivals and on streaming platforms. The captions I have included below them are just to put a spin on things, but honestly, they capture the vibe you'll find in these flicks.

2023 has cast a fatigue spell over the global film scene. Hollywood writers went on a 148-day hiatus, and if you take a peek into this year's hit movies, you'll notice a shared sentiment—everyone's just done with the grind. While this feeling is universal, each movie character has his/her unique way of rebelling or dodging the daily grind.

Feeling the same? Dive into these films and stage a mini rebellion with the protagonists—because in a few days, it'll be a new year, and the work hustle begins all over again.

The Delinquents

Year of Production: 2023

Directed by: Rodrigo Moreno

Morán, a bank employee, hatches a plan to steal a fortune so he can retire for good. He plans to confess his sin and serve his time in prison, while Román, his accomplice, safeguards the stolen cash.

The film premiered at this year's Cannes Film Festival and was subsequently submitted as an entry for the Oscars Best International Feature Film to represent Argentina. Although it did not make it to the final list, it is my best film of the year! There’s no need for a grand introduction—this film just slaps you with a soul-rattling question: 3 years in prison or 30 years at work, which one would you choose?

This movie is 189 minutes long, but don't worry, you’ll be immersed in it. It’s divided into two parts. In the first part, you will quickly step into Morán’s role and have a great time on an adventure to steal US$650,000. In the second part, you will be in Román’s shoes and spend with him three and a half years of unease, thinking about the purpose of going to work. Finally, you will start to think: Am I brave like Morán? Or will I be like Román who is trapped by his job his whole life?

The Killer

Year of Production: 2023

Directed by: David Fincher

A skilled senior assassin fails an assassination mission and is subsequently dismissed by his organization. In addition, his wife is brutally retaliated against. Consumed by shame and anger, the assassin decides to seek revenge on his boss and employer based on the limited clues he has. If he fails, there will be no turning back.

"The Killer" hit the screen at this year's Venice Film Festival and was released on Netflix in November. Most fans were scratching their heads about it being dubbed the black sheep of Fincher's films and struggling to connect with the protagonist who is a hitman. But let's spice things up a bit - what if Fincher is just plain tired of the movie-making game, and the killer is utterly done with the whole routine of performing tasks?

Yes, the killer in this film is basically your everyday worker. He messes up, gets frustrated, faces unfair treatment, and then goes all out to flip the table on the higher-ups. Just your average office drama with a touch of assassin flair.

Wingwomen

Year of Production: 2023

Directed by: Mélanie Laurent

Tired of dancing on razor’s edge, two master thieves, who are BFFs, decide to bring in the spirited Sam for one final heist. It's the last hurrah before they trade the thrill of crime for a less nerve-wracking gig.

This film shares a common theme with "The Killer" – both involve employees taking out their bosses, but their vibes are like chalk and cheese. If "The Killer" is a bitter, male-driven saga of resentment and bravado, "Wingwomen," under the lens of a female French director, is a breezy, romance-packed narrative of female killers. Unlike a typical macho action flick, this movie showcases the untapped potential of action stories centered around women. However, no matter what the gender, the killers eventually reach the end of their assassination career and yearn for something new.

Leave the World Behind

Year of Production: 2023

Directed by: Sam Esmail

Amanda's family of four goes on a luxurious getaway in a rental home in the suburbs. Just then, a sudden and inexplicable event occurs - the entire city is attacked and the Internet is completely shut down. As a result, the original owners of the house, a father and daughter, have no choice but to return to their residence. Now, the two families must face this challenging situation together.

At a quick glance, the movie's plot summary may not scream "workers’ strike". Even after watching it in its entirety, you may still be unsure of its connection to the subject matter. But take a moment to ponder, and you’ll realize it's all because Amanda is utterly fed up with her job and desperately needs an escape, aka a vacation. Yet, even during her quest for serenity, she finds herself tangled in a mess. Help! Doesn't this hit a bit too close to home for office warriors like us? Even when we manage to go on a getaway, true mental relaxation remains an elusive unicorn. Work, life, and social ties weave a colossal web, and breaking free from it seems like a herculean task.