“The Last Shift” is a 2020 American comedy-drama film by writer-director Andrew Cohn as his narrative directorial debut. The movie was produced by Bona Fide Productions, Park Pictures, Whitewater Films and Stage 6 Films, and distributed by Sony Pictures Releasing. “The Last Shift” had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in early 2020. The film follows the story of Stanley, an aging fast-food restaurant worker, and Jevon, a young African-American man who takes over Stanley’s position as his replacement on the graveyard shift. “The Last Shift” explores themes of race, generational divide and the changing landscape of the American workforce.
The film is not setup or based on a specific source material such as a book or play. Instead, it draws inspiration from real-life experiences and the social dynamics prevalent in working-class communities. The narrative delves into the lives of ordinary individuals struggling to navigate their aspirations, limitations, and the complexities of their respective environments.
At its core, “The Last Shift” examines the concept of the “last shift” itself, symbolizing both the physical act of leaving a job and the broader implications it carries. The film provides a window into the lives of characters whose dreams, disappointments and desires are intertwined with their work identities.
Stanley, portrayed by Richard Jenkins, is a white man who has spent 38 years working at a fictional fast-food chain called Oscar’s Chicken and Fish. He is on the cusp of retirement, and the film portrays his struggle with the idea of leaving the job that has defined his existence. Through Stanley, the film explores the emotional attachments and sense of purpose that individuals derive from their careers, even in seemingly unremarkable roles.
Jevon, played by Shane Paul McGhie, represents a younger generation grappling with its own set of challenges. As an African-American man, Jevon faces systemic obstacles and racial biases in his quest for upward mobility. He is a talented writer and aspires to become a journalist, but is forced to take on the night shift at Oscar’s to make ends meet. Jevon’s character serves as a conduit for examining the racial disparities and social inequities prevalent in the contemporary, minimum wage American workforce.
Throughout the film, Stanley and Jevon form an unlikely bond as they navigate their shared experiences and confront their personal biases and privilege. Their interactions highlight the generational divide and the contrasting perspectives shaped by their respective life circumstances. The film’s narrative emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding and the potential for growth that arises from genuine human connections.
“The Last Shift” also touches upon broader social issues such as economic inequality, the erosion of the American Dream and the devaluation of blue-collar work. It sheds light on the often overlooked stories of individuals who have dedicated their lives to jobs that are often dismissed or stigmatized.
In addition to the central characters, the film introduces a range of supporting roles, each offering a distinct perspective on the themes explored. From the restaurant manager struggling to keep the business afloat to the loyal customers who frequent Oscar’s, these characters contribute to the film’s portrayal of a community grappling with change and uncertainty.
“The Last Shift” is a poignant exploration of the human experience within the context of work, class and race. It highlights the personal struggles, aspirations, and moments of connection that define our lives, even in seemingly mundane circumstances. Through its nuanced storytelling and compelling performances, the film invites viewers to reflect on their own lives, the choices they make and the connections they forge along the way.