Sean Bakeris arguably our reigning cinematic poet of America’s underground economy.
The heroes of Bakers films are never born into privilege.
If the characters in Baker’s filmsdohave a family, it is almost always a chosen one.
Image via CAVU Pictures
Bakers star has risen considerably since he broke through the proverbial D.I.Y.
Before this recent series of films, however, Bakers authorial interests were very clearly set in place.
Our protagonist is Ming Ding, played in a heartbreaking performance by actorCharles Jang.
Image via Criterion
Ming is working his tail off as a deliveryman for a Chinese take-out joint in the city.
He frequently sends money to his family back home.
There is, however, a considerable problem.
Image via Criterion
The cruelty is amplified by the thoughtlessness of the whole exchange.
All that matters, in the world of this film, is getting by.
It’s not about success, it’s about survival.
Image via Criterion
Apart from its more thematically multifaceted virtues,Take Outis an affirmation of the integrity of true independent filmmaking.
