Bartleby Poster

Bartleby 2001

★ 5.837 votes85 min📅 2001-03-10

"I would prefer not to."

Dive into the curious world of *Bartleby* (2001), Jonathan Parker's quirky modern twist on Herman Melville's classic tale.

Director: Jonathan Parker

Cast

Crispin Glover
Crispin Glover
Bartleby
David Paymer
David Paymer
The Boss
Glenne Headly
Glenne Headly
Vivian
Joe Piscopo
Joe Piscopo
Rocky
Maury Chaykin
Maury Chaykin
Ernest
Seymour Cassel
Seymour Cassel
Frank Waxman
Dick Martin
Dick Martin
The Mayor
Carrie Snodgress
Carrie Snodgress
Book Publisher
Greta Danielle Newgren
Boss's Date
Ken Murakami
Ken Murakami
Landlord

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bartleby (2001) about?

Bartleby (2001) follows a timid office worker who begins declining tasks with the phrase, 'I would prefer not to.' His passive resistance disrupts the workplace, revealing layers of workplace alienation and personal withdrawal. The film blends humor with existential questions about purpose and routine.

Who directed Bartleby?

Jonathan Parker directed *Bartleby*, infusing Melville's classic story with a modern, absurdist office setting.

Who stars in Bartleby?

The film stars Crispin Glover, David Paymer, Glenne Headly, Joe Piscopo, and Maury Chaykin in key roles.

Is Bartleby (2001) worth watching?

With its sharp social commentary and Crispin Glover's standout performance, *Bartleby* (2001) is a cult gem worth exploring for fans of dark comedy and existential drama. Its concise runtime makes it an easy yet thought-provoking watch.

How long is Bartleby?

Bartleby runs for 85 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

Bartleby: A Dark Comedy About Office Rebellion — Full Movie Info

Dive into the curious world of *Bartleby* (2001), Jonathan Parker's quirky modern twist on Herman Melville's classic tale. Set against the mundane backdrop of a 1990s office environment, this dark comedy-drama follows a peculiar scrivener who slowly withdraws from reality with the eerie phrase, "I would prefer not to." Crispin Glover delivers a mesmerizing performance as the enigmatic Bartleby, whose passive resistance to corporate tedium spirals into a surreal exploration of isolation and defiance. The film's minimalist style and deadpan humor create an atmosphere that's both unsettling and oddly captivating, blending existential themes with sharp social commentary.

With a runtime of just 85 minutes, *Bartleby* (2001) is a tight, thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the credits roll. The ensemble cast, including David Paymer and Glenne Headly, grounds the film's absurdity in a world that feels eerily familiar. Whether you're drawn to its offbeat humor or its deeper musings on modern labor, this adaptation offers a fresh take on a literary gem.