The Last Shift

The Last Shift is a captivating drama-comedy movie released in 2020, independently produced and directed by Andrew Cohn. With its humorous dialogues and poignant commentary on issues such as social class and racial inequality, the movie intricately weave together real-life scenarios and personal narratives that incite both laughter and introspection.

The film centres around Stanley, an aging man who has spent the last 38 years of his life working the graveyard shift at Oscar's Chicken and Fish, a fast-food joint in a small Michigan town. This role is masterfully played by Richard Jenkins, a seasoned actor whose ordinary presence skillfully executes Stanley's unpretentious and perhaps even mundane character. With age catching up to him, Stanley calls it quits and decides to retire, essentially marking the end of an era. With his upcoming retirement, Stanley's replacement is brought in – a young African American man named Jevon, who is skillfully played by the up-and-coming actor Shane Paul McGhie.

Jevon is an aspiring writer with a complicated past. Jevon managed to survive a life filled with wrong influences and choices and lands a full-time job at the fish and chicken establishment after serving time in jail. The movie follows the dynamics between these two main characters as Stanley tries to teach Jevon the ropes of his old job.

Comic relief in the movie sometimes comes in the form of Stanley's eccentric boss, Shazz, played by Da'Vine Joy Randolph. The movie capitalizes on the almost absurd encounters between these quirky, yet very real characters, navigating life as best they can.

The Last Shift may seem like a simple story of a fast-food joint handed over from an old-timer to a novice, but it's also a distinct narrative that touches upon timeless social and racial topics with humor and sensitivity. The movie unravels the uneasy tension happening at Oscar's, subtly encroaching upon subjects often left unventured, that are given a discretionally lighter tone, whether it's the stark contrast between their ages, social and racial backgrounds, or their roles in society.

Stanley, having dedicated most of his life to the fast-food joint, is overtly optimistic, almost lackadaisical in his complacency. His ambition? Saving up money to travel to his mother's grave. Contemplating retirement, Stanley symbolises a past generation, grappling with change and the subtleties of racial and generational differences. On the other hand, incoming Jevon, with his sharply contrasting worldview, bears the brunt of a strained social framework, yet dreams against the odds. These characters, despite being miles apart in experiences and sentiments, somehow find common ground - the chicken and fish joint.

Throughout the film, the audience finds that the relationship between Stanley and Jevon initials awkward encounters as Stanley, who is used to his routine and solitude, initially struggles to adjust to this new chapter of his life. However, as the narrative unfolds, their relationship develops, leading to shared laughter, individual reflections, and solemn life truths.

The Last Shift delivers thought-provoking performances from Richard Jenkins and Shane Paul McGhie, among others, with an engaging storyline that deftly explores the socioeconomic landscape of contemporary America. Despite its fast-food backdrop, the film presents more than humor; it serves a hearty food-for-thought portion to its audience.

In many ways, The Last Shift is a meditation on privilege, opportunity, and the struggle of individuality within the context of broader societal norms. It provides a platform to explore these contemporary issues through its characters and their interactions. The film's strength lies in the poignant moments of bustling fast-food chaos, late-night silent contemplations, heartfelt confessions, mundane absurdities, and striking dynamics embodied in the life of Oscar's Chicken and Fish joint.

While The Last Shift balances comedy and drama, its real achievement lies in its ability to use a simple narrative to explore complex social dynamics. It serves as a clear mirror that reflects the reality of modern life, making it a must-watch movie for those who appreciate a blend of humor and thought-provoking commentary.