Windfall: Why The Movie's Characters Don't Have Actual Names
Warning! SPOILERS for Windfall.
Windfall makes the deliberate choice to avoid giving its characters actual names. The latest Netflix thriller Windfall boasts a high-caliber ensemble cast, including Jesse Plemons, Lily Collins, and Jason Segel. Despite the film’s one-and-a-half-hour runtime, its characters remain unknown, as they're only referred to as the CEO (Plemons), the Wife (Collins), and Nobody (Segel). This creative decision is by no means accidental, as it allows the film's character identities to have a deliberate impact.
Directed by Charlie McDowell, Windfall seemingly begins with a home break-in. As the movie progresses, it escalates into a hostage situation that highlights the desperation of the characters at play. Although the thriller is mostly set within the wealthy couple’s property, it manages to unravel the complexities of economic inequalities with its metaphors and intimate conversations. Ultimately, towards its ending, Windfall reveals itself as a film about choices, exposing those who are trapped and freeing those who are shackled.
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Windfall’s effect on its audience largely relies on its characters — and their lack of real names. Instead of having personalized names, they are only called by the roles they play in life: the CEO, his Wife, and Nobody. Because of this, Windfall shifts its focus to its themes, emphasizing the gap between the burglar and his victims. At this point, despite the movie being character-driven, their identities do not necessarily matter. The viewers are free to form their opinions of and project their own emotions on the nameless characters, making the film a more immersive experience.
Depriving
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