Cashback 2007

Drama

Comedy

Romance

Box Office

$2.3M

Runtime

102 min

Language

English

Directed by

Sean Ellis

Made by

Magnolia Pictures

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Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Cashback (2007). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

After a heart-wrenching split from his first girlfriend Suzy, portrayed by Michelle Ryan, Ben Willis, an aspiring artist and played by Sean Biggerstaff, finds himself grappling with insomnia. To distract himself from his emotional turmoil, he takes a night job at a local supermarket, a setting that introduces him to an array of eccentric characters who color his nocturnal world. During this time, he becomes enchanted by his co-worker, Sharon Pintey, brought to life by Emilia Fox.

As Ben immerses himself in his thoughts, he allows his imagination to drift into a surreal space. One intriguing daydream involves the ability to pause time, letting him traverse a world where everything is on hold, reminiscent of a film’s “pause” feature. In these fantasies, he pictures female customers in the supermarket completely still, giving him the chance to sketch them without their awareness.

Through a series of flashbacks narrated by Ben, we delve into his past—as a child, he was always captivated by the elegance of the female form. One vivid memory unfolds where a Swedish boarder gracefully walks past him, unabashedly unadorned, as she moves between the shower and her room. It’s an encounter that imprints on young Ben’s mind, accentuated by another playful moment where his friend, Sean Higgins, introduces him to his parents’ stash of adult magazines.

As Ben’s journey unfolds, Sharon becomes his date for a workplace birthday bash. It’s here that he unexpectedly reunites with Suzy, who expresses a desire to rekindle their romance. However, Ben, determined to move forward, turns her down. Unfortunately, this moment sparks anger in Sharon, who misinterprets the situation and feels uneasy about Ben’s past connection with Suzy.

To complicate matters, Ben’s colleagues, Barry Brickman and Matt Stephens, play a practical joke on him by impersonating a gallery owner interested in his artwork, leading to a spontaneous appointment. Surprisingly, the encounter becomes a turning point—upon displaying his art, the gallery owner expresses genuine interest, paving the way for Ben to hold an exhibition. Sharon attends this event and is moved not only by Ben’s newfound success but also by his artistic renderings of her, which help mend her earlier frustrations.

Through art, imagination, and unexpected twists of fate, Ben navigates the chaotic dance of young love, creativity, and personal growth in a world that feels both vividly surreal and painfully real.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Cashback (2007) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Ben's Breakup

After a painful breakup with his first girlfriend, Suzy, Ben is left heartbroken and struggling to cope with his emotions. The end of this relationship marks a significant turning point in his life, leading him to develop insomnia and a sense of solitude.

Nightly Work at the Supermarket

To distract himself from his heartbreak, Ben begins working night shifts at a local supermarket. This job not only serves as a distraction but also brings him into contact with a variety of colorful characters who add some excitement to his life.

Nights Local Supermarket

Meeting Sharon

During his time at the supermarket, Ben meets his colleague Sharon Pintey. Their camaraderie quickly develops into romance, as Ben finds solace in their relationship amidst his struggles with insomnia and heartache.

Local Supermarket

Ben's Imagination Runs Wild

Ben begins to indulge in vivid fantasies, where he imagines he can stop time for others. This unique perspective allows him to envision a world paused, giving him the freedom to explore his artistic desires without societal constraints.

Flashbacks of Childhood

As Ben struggles with his feelings, he experiences flashbacks from his childhood that reveal his early fascination with the female body. These flashbacks illustrate the formative moments that shaped his artistic talent and desires, including encounters with a Swedish boarder.

Birthday Party Invitation

Ben is invited to a birthday party for their boss, where he brings Sharon as his date. This event serves as a pivotal moment, where Ben unexpectedly encounters his ex-girlfriend, Suzy, which complicates his feelings and relationship with Sharon.

Birthday Party

Confrontation with Suzy

At the party, Suzy expresses her desire to rekindle their relationship, putting Ben in a challenging position. Although he refuses her advances, the encounter leaves a negative impression on Sharon, who begins to doubt Ben's commitment.

Birthday Party

The Practical Joke

Colleagues Barry and Matt decide to prank Ben by pretending to be an art gallery owner interested in his work. This humorous encounter leads to a significant turning point as Ben, unaware of the joke, prepares for a pivotal meeting that could change his career.

Meeting the Gallery Owner

During the meeting with the supposed art gallery owner, Ben's real talent shines through as he showcases his drawings. The owner is genuinely impressed and expresses interest in Ben's work, setting the stage for an upcoming exhibition.

The Art Exhibition

Ben's hard work culminates in an art exhibition, attracting attention from various attendees, including Sharon. She is touched not only by his artistic success but also by the depth of feeling he has conveyed through his paintings, many of which portray her.

Art Gallery

Reconciliation with Sharon

Following the exhibition, Sharon's anger dissipates as she sees Ben's dedication and talent on full display. The success of the exhibition leads them to rekindle their relationship, solidifying their bond amidst the ups and downs of life.

Characters

Explore all characters from Cashback (2007). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

Ben Willis (Sean Biggerstaff)

Ben is an aspiring artist grappling with the pain of his first breakup. His character is marked by sensitivity and creativity, often retreating into his imagination to cope with reality. Throughout the film, Ben's journey reflects the struggles of young adulthood and the complexities of love.

🎨 Artist ❤️ Heartbroken 💤 Insomniac

Sharon Pintey (Emilia Fox)

Sharon is Ben's colleague and love interest, characterized by her charm and independence. She plays a crucial role in helping Ben navigate his emotional landscape. As the story unfolds, she represents both a source of inspiration and conflict in his artistic journey.

💕 Love Interest 🌼 Charming 🎉 Supportive

Suzy (Michelle Ryan)

Suzy is Ben's ex-girlfriend whose unresolved feelings end up complicating his new relationship with Sharon. Her character represents the past that Ben must confront in order to move forward with his life. Despite her intentions, her presence creates tension and triggers Ben's introspection.

💔 Ex ➡️ Conflict 🔄 Unresolved

Setting

Learn where and when Cashback (2007) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Location

Supermarket

The story largely takes place in a local supermarket, a space filled with everyday items and quirky characters. This ordinary setting contrasts with Ben's imaginative world where time can stand still. The art gallery later serves as a pivotal location where Ben's artistic journey comes to fruition.

🛒 Supermarket 🎨 Art Gallery

Themes

Discover the main themes in Cashback (2007). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

💔

Heartbreak

The film explores the theme of heartbreak, particularly through Ben's emotional struggles following his breakup with Suzy. This emotional weight drives him to work late nights at the supermarket and fuels his artistic endeavors. His journey highlights how personal pain can lead to creative expression.

🖌️

Art and Imagination

Art and imagination play a crucial role in the narrative, showcasing how Ben transforms his insomnia into creative output. His ability to imagine a frozen world allows for a unique blend of reality and artistry, emphasizing the power of creativity in processing emotions.

❤️

Love

The theme of love is explored through Ben's relationship with Sharon, which develops amid his ongoing turmoil. Their connection highlights the complexities of romance, especially with the shadows of past relationships lingering. Love serves as both a healing force and a source of conflict throughout the story.

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