Clockwatchers, 1997 - ★★★½

It’s amazing how closely the aesthetic of Clockwatchers tracks The Backrooms. And why not? The Gen Z fascination with soulless liminal spaces from the 90’s is wrapped up with the broader questioning of materialism and the capitalist grind. 

But if you temped back in the 90’s-early 2000’s this film also feels incredibly true to life. The floating through a company where no one knows you save the temp wrangler. The trauma bonding with others in your “class”. The constant menial pointless tasks, and no internet or smartphone to distract. 

If AI does come for the office job, this film is a strong counterpoint to the nostalgia that’s already arising for this era of “work”.

Like the old coal mines and auto plants and garment factories that have been similarly automated - “the office” might not be worth mourning.