The Least of These

Swartzwelder crafts an atmospheric slice of diner subculture with a group reminiscent of Sarte's "No Exit" in their tired despair and dislike of one another. The careful attention to details such as the reflection of faces in the greasy toaster makes this film a pleasure to watch over and over. The original score is perfect, helping to create the mood Swartzwelder is aiming for. The acting is strong, some of the characters are right out of Steinbeck.

I use this film in my sociology class to demonstrate the social conditions that foster entrapment and cynicism, as well as the those that open the door to hope and freedom. Although the film's subtext is somewhat subtle the students are inevitably provoked into serious reflection and introspection by the film.