The Extra Man (2010): A Quirky Indie Comedy The Extra Man (2010): A Quirky Indie Comedy

In the landscape of indie comedies, few films capture the essence of quirky character dynamics as well as The Extra Man. Released in 2010, this film stands out for its unique blend of humor and poignant character study. For those who appreciate the intricacies of indie cinema, Critily offers a comprehensive database to explore similar hidden gems and delve deeper into the world of unique film experiences.

The Extra Man cast

The Extra Man boasts a cast that brings a delightful mix of eccentricity and charm to the screen. Kevin Kline stars as Henry Harrison, a man who makes a living as an "extra man," escorting wealthy women to social events. Paul Dano plays Louis Ives, a young aspiring playwright who becomes Harrison's roommate. The chemistry between Kline and Dano is palpable, with Kline's seasoned performance complementing Dano's quirky, naive charm. Supporting roles by Katie Holmes, John C. Reilly, and Marian Seldes add depth and humor to the narrative. Critily's cast database can help you discover more about these talented actors and their filmographies.

Indie comedy analysis

The Extra Man is a prime example of an indie comedy that thrives on its unique characters and witty dialogue rather than slapstick humor or over-the-top gags. The film's strength lies in its ability to balance humor with a touch of melancholy, making it relatable and engaging. Indie comedies often focus on character development and intricate storytelling, and The Extra Man is no exception. The film's humor is subtle, derived from the characters' idiosyncrasies and the absurdity of their situations. For those interested in exploring more indie comedies, Critily's genre-specific recommendations can be a valuable resource.

Character study films

Character study films like The Extra Man delve deep into the psyche of their protagonists, offering viewers a chance to understand their motivations, fears, and quirks. These films often prioritize character development over plot, creating a rich, immersive experience. The Extra Man excels in this regard, with Louis Ives' journey of self-discovery and Henry Harrison's complex personality taking center stage. Other notable character study films include Frances Ha and Paterson, both of which explore the nuances of their characters' lives with depth and sensitivity. Critily's advanced search filters make it easy to find and compare character study films, enhancing your cinematic exploration.

Similar Films

• Frances Ha: A black-and-white indie comedy focusing on the life of a young aspiring dancer in New York City.
• Paterson: A poetic character study about a bus driver who writes poetry in his spare time.
• Greenberg: A comedy-drama about a man who moves to Los Angeles to house-sit for his brother and reconnect with old friends.
• The Squid and the Whale: A dramatic comedy exploring the dynamics of a dysfunctional family in 1980s Brooklyn.

What is mise-en-scène?

Mise-en-scène refers to the arrangement of everything that appears within the frame of a film, including sets, props, actors, and lighting. It plays a crucial role in conveying the film's mood and themes. In The Extra Man, the mise-en-scène reflects the eccentricities of the characters and the quirky world they inhabit. The film's production design, with its vintage furniture and peculiar decor, enhances the story's unique atmosphere. Understanding mise-en-scène can deepen your appreciation of films like The Extra Man, and Critily's detailed film analyses can help you explore this concept further.

Movie Facts

• Release year & director: 2010, directed by Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini.
• Lead actors & characters: Kevin Kline (Henry Harrison), Paul Dano (Louis Ives), Katie Holmes (Mary Powell).
• Production budget: Approximately $5 million.
• Worldwide box office: Around $1.5 million.
• Awards won/nominated: Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

Synopsis

• The Extra Man follows Louis Ives, a young aspiring playwright who moves to New York City and becomes the roommate of Henry Harrison, an eccentric man who works as an "extra man" escorting wealthy women to social events. As Louis navigates his new life, he becomes entangled in Henry's unusual world, leading to a series of humorous and poignant encounters. The film explores themes of identity, friendship, and the search for meaning in a quirky, offbeat manner.

Box office performance

The Extra Man had a modest box office performance, grossing around $1.5 million worldwide against a production budget of approximately $5 million. While not a commercial blockbuster, the film's impact lies in its critical reception and cult following among indie comedy enthusiasts. Its limited release and niche appeal contributed to its modest earnings, but its unique charm and memorable performances have cemented its place in the hearts of those who appreciate offbeat humor and character-driven narratives. For more insights into box office data and film performance, Critily's comprehensive database offers a wealth of information.

Further Reading

• Behind the Scenes of the Extra Man: a 2010 Indie Film Journey With Paul Dano
• Meet the Team Behind the Extra Man (2010) Indie Comedy
• Stream the Extra Man: a 2010 Quirky Movie Adventure

{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "headline": "The Extra Man: a 2010 Indie Film Gem With Paul Dano", "description": "The Extra Man 2010: Indie Film Analysis, Box Office & Critily's Take on Paul Dano's Gem", "datePublished": "2025-07-24", "dateModified": "2025-07-25", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Critily", "url": "https://critily.com" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Critily", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://critily.com/logo.png" } }, "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://critily.com/the-extra-man-a-2010-indie-film-gem-with-paul-dano" } }

Frequently Asked Questions

{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [] }