Death of a Telemarketer (2021)

Death of a Telemarketer Poster

A smooth-talking telemarketer finds himself at the mercy of the man he tried to swindle.

Introduction
"Death of a Telemarketer" is a 2021 dark funny thriller directed by Khaled Ridgeway. The movie looks into the often difficult and demanding world of telemarketing, focusing on the character and journey of a smooth-talking sales agent who deals with an unforeseen and dire scenario. The movie checks out styles of morality, desperation, and the repercussions of one's actions, all within the claustrophobic setting of a single night.

Plot Summary
The story centers on Kasey, represented by Lamorne Morris, a charismatic telemarketer known for his gift of gab and high sales numbers. Kasey is a specialist at manipulating possible customers over the phone to close offers, often pushing ethical boundaries to meet his quotas. Nevertheless, his silver-tongued tactics take a sour turn during a sales competitors at his job that uses a much-needed promo.

Intending to win at all costs, Kasey decides to break the rules by calling numbers from the Do Not Call list after hours, leading him to call a reclusive and distressed man named Asa, played by Jackie Earle Haley. Asa, a male battling with his own personal demons, does not take kindly to Kasey's unsolicited call. He sees it as the last straw after suffering a series of individual injustices and chooses to do something about it.

After some preliminary discussion, Asa tempts Kasey to his home under false pretenses, where he challenges the telemarketer about the invasive nature of his task. Events quickly intensify, and Kasey discovers himself handcuffed to a chair, at the mercy of a significantly unhinged Asa. The film ends up being a battle of wits, as Kasey needs to use all his convincing skills not to close a sale but to conserve his own life.

Characters and Performances
Lamorne Morris effectively depicts Kasey with a mix of appeal and desperation, making audiences both root for and recoil from him. His performance showcases the duality of a character who is at as soon as both the victim and the architect of his misery. Jackie Earle Haley, understood for his extreme and typically dark functions, brings a menacing edge to the character of Asa, creating a tension-filled equivalent to Kasey's suave behavior.

Supporting characters, including Kasey's co-workers and a love interest, expand the world of telemarketing and supply extra layers to the primary story. Their interactions with Kasey help to paint an image of a guy who is remarkably competent at his craft yet morally jeopardized by his aspiration.

Themes and Message
"Death of a Telemarketer" looks into the repercussions of one's actions, exploring how the unrelenting pursuit of success can cause moral personal bankruptcy. Kasey's character embodies the archetypical flawed protagonist whose hubris leads him to a dangerous downfall. The film also critiques the telemarketing market, highlighting the intrusive effect it can have on people's lives.

In addition, the film scrutinizes the idea of communication, twisting the idea of discussion as a tool for comprehending into among adjustment and control. Kasey's situation is ironic; a guy who makes a living through discussion is pushed into a discussion that could end his life.

Conclusion
"Death of a Telemarketer" serves as a gripping piece that challenges the audience to consider the nature of persuasion, the ethics of intrusion of privacy, and the true expense of success. It's a dark comic tale that links humor, suspense, and drama, all while penetrating the darker side of human nature. The movie's intimate scope and little cast enable a focused narrative that keeps the viewer engaged, providing both entertainment and food for analyzed its gifted performances and intriguing plot twists.

Top Cast

  • Lamorne Morris (small)
    Lamorne Morris
    Kasey Miller
  • Jackie Earle Haley (small)
    Jackie Earle Haley
    Asa Ellenbogen
  • Haley Joel Osment (small)
    Haley Joel Osment
    Jim / Dean
  • Alisha Wainwright (small)
    Alisha Wainwright
    Christine
  • Woody McClain (small)
    Woody McClain
    Barry
  • Matt McGorry (small)
    Matt McGorry
    Andy
  • Sujata Day (small)
    Sujata Day
    Shelly
  • Starletta DuPois (small)
    Starletta DuPois
    Mrs. Gordon
  • Ian Verdun (small)
    Ian Verdun
    Officer Brian Gerard
  • Gil Ozeri (small)
    Gil Ozeri
    Justin
  • Fernando Martinez (small)
    Fernando Martinez
    Fats