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Poster for Factotum

Factotum

Seen it?

2005 | 94 min | Drama

Sunday Safe Bet

Why it’s a Sunday Safe Bet

It earned strong reviews (74% on Rotten Tomatoes), though it had a lukewarm 6.2 out of 10 from audiences and little lasting buzz. A safe bet when you want something reliable.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Made for anyone who loves a strong drama. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
The mood
Thoughtful and character-driven.
The pace
Takes its time with its characters, at 1 hr 34 min.
What might put you off
  • Rated R: meant for adults.
  • Audiences were cooler on it than critics.

This drama centers on Hank Chinaski, the fictional alter-ego of "Factotum" author Charles Bukowski, who wanders around Los Angeles, CA trying to live off jobs which don't interfere with his primary interest, which is writing. Along the way, he fends off the distractions offered by women, drinking and gambling.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsStrong

    74% on Rotten Tomatoes, 71 on Metacritic

  • AudiencesBelow par

    6.2 out of 10

  • AwardsNot counted

    No major awards or nominations

  • Box office & staying powerSolid

    $3 million worldwide on a $1 million budget; still draws a steady audience long after release

  • Buzz & cultural impactBelow par

    About 29K people sought it out in the past year

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by Bent Hamer

  • Matt DillonHenry Chinaski
  • Lili TaylorJan
  • Marisa TomeiLaura
  • Fisher StevensManny
  • Didier FlamandPierre
  • Adrienne ShellyJerry
  • Karen YoungGrace
  • Thomas LyonsTony Endicott
  • Dean BrewingtonOld Black Man
  • James CadaBald Man