7 Must-See Movies If You've Ever Worked in Retail

Chances are that you (yes, I'm talking to YOU) have, at some point in your life, worked in the customer service industry known the world over as "retail". It comes in many forms — clothing stores, supermarkets, fast food and everything in between. Dealing with the wrath of the general public is not always the most rewarding, but it's definitely a job I think EVERYONE should experience in their lifetime.

Add into that a mixture of unsociable hours and school kids destroying your immaculately stacked shelves at break-time, and it all conspires to make retail one of the most stressful jobs on the career ladder. Well, I feel your pain my friend, so I recommend seven retail-based films that will give you cause to remember those days with a chuckle instead of a cold-sweat. Are you ready? Let's go!

CASHBACK (2006)

A great British film here that walks the fine line between a beautiful art-house flick and a slapstick-comedy look into the inner workings of retail. When an art student splits up with his girlfriend he develops insomnia and takes a night job at his local Sainsbury's supermarket. This movie has a lot going for it and I just love how the director has turned the ordinary into the extraordinary. Funny, heartfelt and honest this movie is a must-see if you've ever worked in retail — or had your heart broken.

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH (2006)

A silly rom-com set in a fictional store that rather closely resembles a Costco mega-store. When Zack, one of the store slackers, realizes the new girl only goes after the "employee of the month", he changes his goals and starts to become the best employee the store has ever seen. This Jessica Simpson movie is a fun comedic effort that takes a very over-the-top view of life in retail. Worth seeing at least once for its amusing comedic set-pieces and ensemble cast.

EMPIRE RECORDS (1995)

When a struggling record shop is about to be taken over by a big music chain, the employees band together and fight back against the corporate machine. Anyone who remembers the 90s will get a kick out of this nostalgia laden flick that combines every musical genre under one sun, albeit at the risk of over shadowing the actual story. A true movie for the hipster in you, even cooler because vinyl has just come back in a big way. Give it a chance for the music and stay for Liv Tyler's, umm, smile.

CLERKS (1994)

Classic directorial debut for Kevin Smith, Clerks is a full-frontal comedic assault on the senses. When Dante gets called back to work on his day off he has to deal with annoying customers, girl trouble and the possibility that his life is well and truly going slowly down the drain. A surefire slacker-comedy that has aged very well since its smash-hit debut. It also spawned a worthy sequel (Clerks 2 in '06). Let's hope cameras roll on the in-development third chapter.

HIGH FIDELITY (2000)

In a similar vein to Empire Records, this one follows a hapless record store owner's love life that seems to be forever in turmoil (tell me about it). Starring John Cusack and Jack Black in, arguably, their most honest roles on screen. Cusack does his finest Deadpool and breaks the forth wall when informing the audience about his previous partners and why he figures it didn't work out. A damn fine movie that will make you laugh and cry in equal measure — can't recommend it enough.

MALL-RATS (1995)

Another Kevin Smith comedy here, set within the confines of a reasonably-sized suburban mall. When a guy gets dumped by his girlfriend he heads over to his favorite mall and plots with his friends to win her back. A great ensemble cast, it even stars Ben Affleck in his pre-Batsuit days. Also another fine return for Smith's Jay and Silent Bob characters who are amazing to watch as they constantly battle to one up the head security guard at the mall.I had this on VHS tape and nearly wore it out from repeat viewings, so go find it on Netflix or just buy the damn DVD already.

DAWN OF THE DEAD (1978)

When a zombie epidemic reaches critical levels, a group of survivors manage to fortify a shopping mall and live in relative luxury in contrast to the devastation outside. However, their own greed begins to take its toll as the dead surround them. George.A.Romero's masterpiece takes a bite out of the insatiable needs of a generation of consumer-obsessed Americans. More relevant then ever (Black Friday, anyone?) and needs to be seen by anyone who has ever questioned their "retail therapy" motivations.

Ready To Go Shopping?

With that we've come to the end of this list. The big question is: Did I miss any? If so, let me know in the comments. Since I still work part-time in retail it's always fun to see other people's viewpoints on the industry and its many memorable incidents. Like, for instance, the time I and another Staples staff member hid from the manager in the racking above the shelves on the shop floor — fun times. Can't say any more for now, otherwise I might get fired — just remember to be nice to your local retail workers because they WILL remember if you aren't.

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I'm Matt a horror obsessed writer and sometimes filmmaker. If you enjoyed my article above why not consider clicking that donate button and send me a tip of your choice. We're all trying to make ends meet in these difficult times and any donations would be appreciated, alternatively, if you share my article on Reddit or social media it can increase my earnings from Vocal itself. I appreciate the time you've taken to read my work and lastly I'd like to say why not check out my YouTube channel for some of my own Horror adventures. Stay Safe Friends and be kind.