Salesman

Salesman

Year: 1969

Runtime: 91 min

Language: English

Directors: Albert Maysles, Charlotte Zwerin, David Maysles

DramaDocumentary

As a struggling salesman faces the uncertainties of matrimony, he embarks on a poignant quest to reignite the passion in his newlywed life.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Salesman (1969)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Salesman (1969). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film captures the essence of an era marked by the pursuit of the American Dream, juxtaposed with the disillusionment faced by many during that time. The salesmen's attempts to sell the Bible reflect broader themes of aspiration and struggle, resonating with the audience's understanding of societal values and economic challenges.

Location

Boston, Chicago, Miami, Opa-Locka, Webster

The film traverses several key locations, starting in Boston, Massachusetts, a vibrant city known for its historical significance and diverse neighborhoods. It also highlights Chicago, a bustling metropolis that serves as a hub for the salesmen's conference, emphasizing the networking aspect of their journey. Miami and Opa-Locka in Florida represent the sunny, dynamic end of their sales route, where the cultural fabric includes a blend of local communities, particularly Cuban immigrants.

🏙️ City 📖 Religion 🚗 Travel

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:21

Main Characters – Salesman (1969)
Meet the key characters of Salesman (1969), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Paul 'The Badger' Brennan

Paul, known as 'The Badger', is characterized by his relentless determination and relentless sales tactics. He approaches potential customers with a mix of humor and urgency, aiming to break through resistance with his charming persona. His tenacity reflects the broader struggle of the salesmen, representing both their hopes and frustrations.

📈 Salesman 🧠 Determined 😂 Charming

Charles 'The Gipper' McDevitt

Charles, or 'The Gipper', embodies a more strategic approach to sales, using wit and charisma to connect with potential buyers. His tactics may involve storytelling and emotional appeal, showcasing a nuanced understanding of human psychology. This character's depth adds richness to the ensemble of salesmen.

🚀 Strategic 👔 Charismatic 📖 Religious

James 'The Rabbit' Baker

James, nicknamed 'The Rabbit', brings agility and quick thinking to his sales techniques. His ability to adapt to different customer responses highlights the versatility required in the sales world. This adaptability illustrates the importance of being in tune with one’s audience while navigating the challenges of door-to-door sales.

🏃‍♂️ Agile 🔄 Adaptable 🤝 Resourceful

Raymond 'The Bull' Martos

Raymond, often referred to as 'The Bull', displays a tough exterior with a strong sales presence. He uses a more direct approach, conveying confidence and assurance in his pitches. His character reflects the competitive nature of salesmanship and the assertion needed to confront potential rejection.

💪 Bold 🚪 Direct 📊 Competitive

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:21

Major Themes – Salesman (1969)
Explore the central themes of Salesman (1969), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

📖 Faith & Commerce

The interplay between faith and commerce is a central theme, as the salesmen attempt to merge the spiritual value of the Bible with the financial necessity of selling it. Each salesman brings his own unique approach, revealing the complexities of marketing religious beliefs. This theme highlights not only the personal motivations of the characters but also the broader societal implications of combining faith with profit.

💔 Disillusionment

Disillusionment permeates the narrative as the salesmen confront the stark realities of their mission. Despite their determination and charisma, they face significant challenges in convincing their target market—a reflection of the broader human experience of striving for goals that remain just out of reach. This theme resonates with anyone who has experienced the gap between aspiration and reality.

👥 Community & Connection

The film emphasizes the importance of community and connection, showcasing the salesmen's interactions with a diverse range of customers. Their attempts to relate to lonely widows, married couples, and disenchanted housewives underscore the role of personal connections in both sales and life. This theme reflects the social fabric of American society and the varying experiences of its people.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:21

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