Pinter's work is heavily influenced by Samuel Beckett, who used silence-filled pauses for a revolutionary theatrical effect. Pinter has spoken of speech as a stratagem designed to cover the nakedness of silence, and these aims are often evident in the dialogue of Gus and Ben. Ben's most prominent response to Gus's constant questions about the nature of their jobs is silence. Lurking underneath this silence is always the threat of violence, the anticipation of something deathly—the play ends as Ben trains his gun on Gus in silence.

cast: John Travolta, Tom Conti

Ignore the cover on this video. It's not really a comedy. It's about the silence and violence of language and anxiety over social class.

Also Known As:
Basements
Runtime: USA:108 min
Country: Canada
Language: English
Color: Color
Sound Mix: Mono

(see also The Room)