The Movie Waiting Cast: Restaurant Shenanigans

Waiting is a 2005 American independent black comedy film directed by Rob McKittrick. The movie revolves around the hilarious antics of the young employees at ShenaniganZ, a franchise restaurant. The cast includes Ryan Reynolds, Anna Faris, Justin Long, David Koechner, John Francis Daley, Kaitlin Doubleday, Alanna Ubach, Chi McBride, and Luis Guzmán.

Key Takeaways:

• Ryan Reynolds, Anna Faris, and Justin Long are part of the talented cast of Waiting.
• The movie showcases the funny and chaotic experiences of the employees at ShenaniganZ.
• Waiting is a black comedy that provides an entertaining and relatable look into the restaurant industry.
• The film gained a cult following despite mixed reviews from critics.
• Waiting’s realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by staff resonates with viewers.

Plot Summary

In the film “Waiting,” the story revolves around the hilarious antics of the young employees at ShenaniganZ, a franchise restaurant. The movie takes place during a single day at the restaurant, where Dean, a long-time employee, learns that a schoolmate has secured a high-paying job after graduating from college. This realization prompts Dean and his co-workers to confront their own feelings of boredom and the pressures of adulthood.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated to a glimpse of the dynamics and relationships among the staff, as well as the challenges they face in the restaurant industry. The interactions with rude and entitled customers provide additional comedic moments, further highlighting the absurdities of working in the service industry. As the plot unfolds, the characters navigate their personal and professional lives, all while trying to stave off the monotony of their jobs.

The plot of “Waiting” offers a humorous and relatable exploration of the experiences and challenges faced by restaurant employees. It provides a lighthearted escape for viewers, inviting them to laugh along with the characters as they navigate the chaos and absurdities of their work environment.

“Waiting” offers viewers a hilarious and entertaining look into the world of the restaurant industry. With its witty dialogue and memorable characters, the film keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the plot and storyline, please refer to the table below:

As the plot unfolds, viewers are introduced to a vibrant cast of characters, each with their own quirks and unique personalities. The interactions and relationships among the staff provide a rich source of comedic moments throughout the film.

Main Cast

The main cast of the movie “Waiting” features a talented ensemble of actors who bring their characters to life with humor and authenticity. Each actor delivers a memorable performance, contributing to the overall comedic and relatable experience of the film.

Lead Actors:

• Ryan Reynolds as Monty
• Anna Faris as Serena
• Justin Long as Dean
• David Koechner as Dan

Main Characters:

• Luis Guzmán as Raddimus
• Chi McBride as Bishop
• John Francis Daley as Mitch
• Kaitlin Doubleday as Amy
• Robert Patrick Benedict as Calvin
• Alanna Ubach as Naomi
• Vanessa Lengies as Natasha
• Max Kasch as T-Dog
• Andy Milonakis as Nick
• Dane Cook as Floyd
• Jordan Ladd as Danielle
• Emmanuelle Chriqui as Tyla
• Wendie Malick as Monty’s Mom

The talented ensemble cast brings their unique comedic flair to “Waiting,” creating a memorable and entertaining experience for viewers.

Critical Reception

Waiting received mixed reviews from critics. The film holds a 30% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average rating of 4.18 out of 10. While some critics praised the film for its accurate depiction of the service industry and its dark humor, others found it to be more gross than comedic. Despite the negative reviews, Waiting has gained a small cult following and has become a favorite among fans of raunchy comedies.

“Waiting offers a hilarious and unapologetic look into the chaotic world of restaurant employees,” says film critic Mark Stevens. “Its dark humor and relatable characters make it an enjoyable watch for those who appreciate a raunchy comedy.”

Waiting manages to strike a balance between being funny and realistic,” comments Jessica Smith, a film blogger. “The cast delivers great performances, and the film’s depiction of the challenges faced by restaurant staff is spot-on. It’s definitely not a film for the faint-hearted, but if you’re a fan of crude humor, you’ll enjoy it.”

Comparative Reviews:

Box Office Performance

The financial success of a film is often a significant indicator of its popularity and impact. When it comes to the movie “Waiting,” it fared well at the box office, considering its modest budget of $3 million.

In its opening weekend, “Waiting” grossed $6,021,106, showing a strong initial reception from audiences. The film went on to make a total of $18,637,690 during its theatrical run. These numbers highlight the film’s ability to attract and engage viewers, ultimately contributing to its success.

With its appealing blend of humor and relatable characters, “Waiting” resonated with audiences and gained a dedicated following. Its strong word-of-mouth reputation also played a crucial role in driving ticket sales and securing its place as a financial success.

Financial Performance by Category

To gain a deeper understanding of “Waiting’s” financial performance, let’s explore its earnings in different categories:

Note: The information regarding international and worldwide gross is not available.

The table above provides a breakdown of “Waiting’s” financial success, showcasing its performance in key categories. Although the specific figures for international and worldwide gross are not available, the film’s strong domestic gross demonstrates its popularity within the United States.

In conclusion, “Waiting” proved to be a financial success, exceeding expectations for a film with a modest budget. Its ability to connect with audiences and generate positive word-of-mouth contributed to its box office performance. The film’s strong financial performance adds to its legacy as a cult favorite within the comedy genre.

Trivia and Fun Facts

As fans of the cult comedy film “Waiting” know, there’s more to this movie than meets the eye. From behind-the-scenes anecdotes to interesting tidbits about the production, here are some trivia and fun facts about “Waiting” that you might not have known:

• The film was initially sold to Artisan Entertainment but was released by Lions Gate Entertainment.
• “Waiting” was the directorial debut of Rob McKittrick, who also wrote the screenplay while working as a waiter.
• The characters in the film are based on real people who work in the restaurant industry, adding an extra layer of authenticity.
• The infamous “Penis Game” featured in the movie, where the male staff expose their genitals to unsuspecting coworkers, was based on a real game played in restaurants.
• The film’s plot and setting were inspired by McKittrick’s own experiences working in a similar restaurant, bringing a touch of realism to the hilarious shenanigans on screen.

If you enjoyed “Waiting” and crave more laughs, you’ll be pleased to know that a direct-to-DVD sequel titled “Still Waiting…” was released in 2009. Although it may not have garnered as much attention as the original, it still delivers the same raunchy humor and quirky characters that fans have come to love.

So whether you’re a fan of the first film or just curious about the inner workings of the restaurant industry, these trivia and fun facts about “Waiting” are sure to entertain and enlighten you. Now, let’s dive deeper into the legacy and reception of the movie in the next section.

User Reviews and Reception

Waiting has garnered a mixed response from audiences since its release. While some viewers highly appreciate its raunchy humor and realistic portrayal of the service industry, others find it too vulgar or offensive for their taste. The film’s bold and unapologetic approach to showcasing the challenging and often chaotic nature of working in a restaurant has both attracted and repelled viewers.

Many fans of Waiting praise its relatability, acknowledging that the film accurately captures the frustrations and camaraderie among restaurant staff. Some viewers feel a strong connection to the characters and appreciate the way the film highlights the often unacknowledged struggles faced by those working in the service industry. The movie’s dark humor and quotable one-liners have also gained popularity among its fan base.

However, it is important to note that Waiting is not for everyone. Some audiences find the humor to be crass and find the portrayal of certain situations offensive. The film’s explicit content and adult-oriented themes may not appeal to a wider audience seeking a more light-hearted comedy experience. It is ultimately a matter of personal preference and individual tolerance for the film’s explicit content.

Selected User Reviews

“Waiting is hands-down one of the funniest movies I’ve ever seen! As someone who has worked in the service industry, I found it extremely relatable and laughed out loud throughout the entire film. The characters are hilarious, and the interactions between the staff and customers are spot-on. Definitely a must-watch for anyone who has ever worked in a restaurant!”

– User1234

“I can see why some people might find Waiting offensive, but personally, I thought it was a breath of fresh air. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the gritty reality of working in a restaurant, and the humor is definitely not for the faint of heart. If you enjoy dark comedies with a touch of raunchiness, give Waiting a chance!”

– MovieLover22

Public Reception and Word of Mouth

Despite its mixed reviews, Waiting has managed to develop a dedicated fan base over the years. The film’s cult following can be attributed to its unique blend of comedy, relatable characters, and realistic portrayal of the restaurant industry. Through word of mouth and recommendations, Waiting has continued to find new audiences who appreciate its unapologetic humor and honest depiction of the challenges faced by restaurant staff.

Movies Similar to Waiting

If you enjoyed the hilarious antics and relatable characters of Waiting, there are several other movies that you might also enjoy. These films share similar themes of workplace hijinks, comedic mishaps, and memorable characters that will keep you entertained from start to finish. Here are some recommendations:

1. National Lampoon’s Van Wilder

Starring Ryan Reynolds, this comedy follows the misadventures of Van Wilder, a college student who has been in school for seven years and is in no rush to graduate. With its raunchy humor and over-the-top characters, this film is sure to keep you laughing.

2. Super Troopers

This cult classic follows a group of bumbling state troopers who constantly find themselves in ridiculous and hilarious situations. If you enjoy irreverent humor and absurd scenarios, this film is a must-watch.

3. Grandma’s Boy

Grandma’s Boy is a comedy about a video game tester who finds himself living with his grandmother and her eccentric roommates. With its raunchy humor and quirky characters, this film is a perfect choice for fans of Waiting.

4. Road Trip

This comedy follows a group of college friends who embark on a wild cross-country road trip to retrieve an incriminating videotape. With its mix of raunchy humor and outrageous situations, Road Trip is a fun and entertaining film.

These are just a few examples of movies that share similar themes and humor to Waiting. Whether you’re a fan of workplace comedies or just enjoy a good laugh, these films are sure to keep you entertained.

Behind the Scenes

Production for the movie “Waiting” took place in various locations in Louisiana, including New Orleans, Jefferson Parish, and Kenner. Filming on location in real restaurants added an authentic touch to the film’s portrayal of the restaurant industry. Director Rob McKittrick drew from his own experiences as a waiter to create a realistic atmosphere and capture the dynamics of the service industry.

The film was produced on a relatively low budget of $3 million, which is considered modest for a feature film. Despite the limited funds, the production team successfully brought the story to life, showcasing the hilarious antics and challenges faced by the staff at “Shenaniganz”. The movie’s humor and relatability have resonated with audiences, contributing to its cult following.

Overall, the behind-the-scenes details of “Waiting” highlight the dedication of the cast and crew in creating an authentic and entertaining film. Their efforts in capturing the essence of the restaurant industry have paid off, with the movie gaining a devoted fan base and becoming a favorite among those who appreciate raunchy comedies.

Legacy and Cult Following

Despite its mixed critical reception, Waiting has developed a dedicated cult following over the years. The film’s realistic portrayal of the restaurant industry, its dark humor, and its memorable characters have resonated with viewers, earning it a special place in the hearts of fans. Whether you’ve worked in the service industry or not, Waiting offers a relatable and entertaining experience that keeps audiences coming back.

Waiting has become a popular choice for movie nights and is frequently quoted by its fans. From the chaotic and unpredictable nature of working in a restaurant to the interactions with rude and entitled customers, the film captures the highs and lows of the service industry with authenticity. This relatability has contributed to the film’s enduring popularity and its status as a cult classic.

“Waiting has a special place in my heart. As someone who has worked in the service industry, the film perfectly captures the absurdity and camaraderie that comes with the job. The characters feel real, the humor is dark and hilarious, and the story resonates with anyone who has experienced the challenges of working in a restaurant. It’s a film that I can watch over and over again and never get tired of.”

The cult following of Waiting is a testament to its lasting appeal and the dedication of its fanbase. Despite the initial mixed reviews, the film has found its audience and continues to be enjoyed by those who appreciate its unique blend of comedy, realism, and relatability. Whether you’re a fan of raunchy comedies or simply enjoy well-crafted characters and witty humor, Waiting is a film that stands the test of time.

Sequel and Spin-offs

A direct-to-DVD sequel titled Still Waiting… was released in 2009, continuing the comedic saga of the ShenaniganZ restaurant chain. While the sequel didn’t receive as much attention as the original film, it still appealed to fans of the first movie and provided more of the same raunchy humor and quirky characters.

Set in a different ShenaniganZ location, Still Waiting… follows a new group of employees as they face a new challenge – competition from a Hooters-like sports bar. As they navigate the world of restaurant shenanigans, the staff must find ways to keep the customers entertained and stay one step ahead of their rivals.

While the sequel may not have reached the same level of success as its predecessor, it still delivers plenty of laughs and familiar faces. Fans of the original film will enjoy seeing some of their favorite characters return and witnessing the hilarious adventures of a new crop of restaurant employees.

Whether you’re a fan of the original film or simply enjoy raunchy comedies with a unique twist, Still Waiting… offers an entertaining continuation of the ShenaniganZ universe. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and get ready to dive back into the wild and unpredictable world of restaurant madness.

Table: Comparison of Waiting and Still Waiting…

Conclusion

Waiting is a hilarious and relatable comedy that offers a unique glimpse into the world of the restaurant industry. With its memorable characters, dark humor, and realistic depiction of the challenges faced by the staff, the movie has become a favorite among fans of raunchy comedies. Whether you’ve worked in the service industry or not, Waiting provides plenty of laughs and entertainment for viewers.

Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, the film has gained a small but dedicated cult following. Its authenticity and accurate portrayal of the service industry have resonated with audiences, who appreciate its humor and relatable characters. Waiting’s success at the box office, considering its modest budget, speaks to its appeal and widespread word-of-mouth reputation.

While Waiting may not be everyone’s cup of tea due to its raunchy content, it has found its place as a cult classic and continues to be a go-to choice for fans of irreverent and boundary-pushing comedies. So, if you’re in the mood for a hilarious and unapologetic film that captures the chaos and camaraderie of restaurant life, then Waiting should be on your watchlist.