Films About Cleaners: A Unique Perspective

Description: This classic comedy features two divorced men living together, one of whom is obsessively neat, highlighting the comedic aspects of cleaning and personal hygiene.

Fact: The film was adapted into a successful TV series. Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau's chemistry was so well-received that they starred together in several other films.

Description: While not directly about cleaning, the protagonist, Alvin Straight, is a retired farmer who cleans up his life by embarking on a journey to reconcile with his estranged brother.

Fact: Directed by David Lynch, this film is known for its gentle pace and was inspired by a true story. It was shot in Iowa and Wisconsin, showcasing rural America.

Description: While not strictly about cleaners, this romantic comedy features a hotel maid whose life changes when she's mistaken for a wealthy socialite, highlighting the class divide and the lives of service workers.

Fact: Jennifer Lopez, who plays the maid, was nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance. The film was inspired by a real-life incident at a New York hotel.

Description: Walter Mitty, a negative assets manager at Life magazine, embarks on a global adventure, but his job involves cleaning up after photo shoots, symbolizing his mundane life before the adventure.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations around the world, including Iceland, Greenland, and New York City. It was inspired by James Thurber's 1939 short story.

Description: While centered on the fashion industry, the film includes scenes of the protagonist cleaning up after her demanding boss, highlighting the often unseen work of assistants.

Fact: Meryl Streep's performance as the magazine editor was inspired by Vogue editor Anna Wintour. The film was a commercial success, grossing over $326 million worldwide.

Description: Although primarily about two terminally ill men, one of the protagonists is a car mechanic who also cleans up his garage, symbolizing his desire for a cleaner, more meaningful life.

Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life list written by screenwriter Justin Zackham's aunt and uncle. Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman improvised many of their scenes.

Description: This film focuses on African-American maids in 1960s Mississippi, exploring their lives, the racial dynamics, and the cleaning they do as part of their daily work.

Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. It was adapted from Kathryn Stockett's best-selling novel.

Description: A thriller about a woman who takes a job as a cleaner to uncover the truth about her husband's death, blending elements of mystery and cleaning.

Fact: The film was shot in Vancouver, Canada, and features a strong female lead, showcasing the empowerment of women in traditionally male-dominated roles.

Description: This British thriller follows a professional cleaner who discovers a dark secret while cleaning a crime scene, leading him into a dangerous underworld.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in London, showcasing the city's less glamorous side. The lead actor, Raza Jaffrey, trained with real cleaners to authentically portray his role.

Description: A dark comedy about a janitor at a high school who becomes embroiled in a student's plot to get revenge on a teacher, offering a humorous take on the janitorial profession.

Fact: The film was a hit at the Edinburgh International Film Festival, winning the Audience Award. It was shot in a real school, adding authenticity to the setting.