Unfinished Business Movie Review: Examining Flops, Themes, and Impact on Relationships

Ah, "Unfinished Business." It feels like your dusty to-do list, doesn't it? Or perhaps a screenplay you abandoned. But "Unfinished Business" appears everywhere. From Hollywood comedies to in-depth psychology and even corporate mergers. Let’s explore this versatile term.

From Box Office Flops to Existential Knots: "Unfinished Business" on the Big Screen

Let’s start with cinema. Many enjoy a good movie reference on a Tuesday. Interestingly, two films named "Unfinished Business" exist. Confusing, right? We will analyze both films and see what they bring to the table.

"Unfinished Business" (The 2015 Comedy Caper – Or Maybe Misadventure?)

The first film is 2015's "Unfinished Business." Picture Vince Vaughn, the quirky everyman, leading a light-hearted business trip in Europe. Sounds fun, doesn’t it? The film aims for humor, even though critics were not impressed.

The plot centers on Dan Trunkman, played by Vaughn. He is tired of being second in command to his unpleasant boss, played by Sienna Miller. So, Dan quits and starts a mineral sales firm. Who needs stability when you can pursue dreams in the vibrant world of minerals? He teams up with two unlikely partners: a retiring associate, portrayed by Tom Wilkinson, and a seemingly clueless sales applicant played by Dave Franco. This odd trio forms the core of the story.

After a year filled with challenges, a promising deal arises. But plot twist! Dan's ex-boss sabotages it. Determined, Dan and his crew embark on a journey to Germany to fix things. Their "routine business trip" soon spirals hilariously off course.

Is "Unfinished Business" (2015) a work of art? Critics suggest otherwise. One review calls it "fleetingly entertaining but confusing." The movie tries to blend family-friendly themes with raunchy humor. This mix results in a confection that feels rather stale.

Even if it lacks awards, we must consider the ending. Spoiler alert! The guys return home, possibly more traumatized yet somewhat successful. Mike rejoins friends from a "special home" (however you interpret that). Tim reunites with a maid from Portland. Dan returns to family, perhaps with a more secure future. A happy-ish ending unfolds amid questionable comedic choices.

For geography buffs, the film was shot in Boston, not Berlin, despite the plot involving Germany. Vince Vaughn filmed this before working on "True Detective." It's quite the tonal shift.

And hey parents, "Unfinished Business" (2015) earned an R rating. Not ideal for family movie night unless your family has unique humor preferences.

"An Unfinished Life" (The 2005 Drama – Prepare for Feelings)

Now, let's change direction. "Unfinished Business" (2015) is the comedic family member at Thanksgiving. Meanwhile, "An Unfinished Life" (2005) is the introspective relative who shares life lessons over tea. Starring Robert Redford, Jennifer Lopez, and Morgan Freeman, this one is quite different.

Picturize the Wyoming ranchlands. Here we meet Einar, played by Robert Redford, a solitary rancher battling alcoholism with only loyal friend Mitch (Morgan Freeman) for company. Einar bears heavy grief and anger toward his daughter-in-law, Jean (Jennifer Lopez). Einar blames her for their son's accidental death.

Then Jean arrives with her granddaughter Griff (Becca Gardner). She seeks refuge from an abusive partner. Despite anger, Einar allows them to stay. A tale of healing and forgiveness unfolds as they confront tragedy and attempt to rebuild familial ties.

Rotten Tomatoes shows how audiences felt about the film. "An Unfinished Life" may not be a blockbuster, yet many appreciated its emotional depth and strong performances. The New York Daily News noted Redford's acceptance of his age in this role added an authentic touch.

The ending of "An Unfinished Life" is bittersweet. Jean’s abuser, Gary, departs the ranch for good. Einar shows small affection towards his cat, signifying an emotional thaw. A conversation with Mitch reveals dreams of flight and acceptance of life's complexity. However, the final shot shifts to Griff’s grave—a stark reminder that loss shadows even healing.

Filmed in British Columbia instead of Wyoming, Robert Redford portrayed Einar at age 68. He perfectly captured a rancher's complex life. Jennifer Lopez transcended her romantic comedy reputation to embrace a deeper role here.

"Unfinished Business": More Than Just Movie Titles

We've seen "Unfinished Business" as both a comedic adventure and a deep exploration of grief. But this phrase has numerous meanings beyond film. Let's explore its thematic and psychological depths.

What Exactly IS "Unfinished Business"? The Definitional Deep Dive

At its essence, "unfinished business" denotes anything left incomplete or unresolved. Think of it like that nagging task on your mental list that never vanishes. It might be an undone task, an unspoken conversation, or unexpressed feelings. In relationships, it often appears as unresolved disputes that linger in the present.

Psychologically, "unfinished business" grows heavier. It occurs when individuals feel their relationships—whether with others or themselves—are unresolved. This triggers emotions like regret and guilt. It’s not merely about forgetting to buy milk; it delves into deeper emotional struggles tying us to our past.

Bereavement often reveals "unfinished business." When someone close dies, unresolved issues can trigger complex grief. That haunting feeling of "if only I had..." or "I wish I would have..." can linger well after moments fade away.

Synonyms and Shades of Meaning

Words carry weight, and synonyms reveal subtleties in meaning. "Unfinished business" encompasses many related terms, each offering unique facets of the idea.

• Loose ends: Emphasizes aspects that feel unkempt or incomplete.
• Pending:
• matters: This indicates items that need attention, like urgent emails in an inbox.
• Outstanding issues: This refers to problems or disputes that remain unresolved. There can be tension in these cases.
• Unresolved affairs: This term carries a formal tone. It implies important matters needing resolution.
• Score to settle or bone to pick: These idioms mean unresolved disagreements or conflicts with someone.

Focusing on the work aspect of "unfinished business," we see terms like:

• Uncompleted work: This is straightforward. It refers to tasks that are not finished.
• Incomplete task: Similar to uncompleted work but generally refers to smaller tasks.
• Work in progress: This has a positive vibe. It means something isn't finished but is being worked on actively.

The Zeigarnik Effect: Why "Unfinished" Sticks in Our Minds

Named after Soviet psychologist Bluma Zeigarnik, this cognitive bias explains why unfinished tasks occupy more mental space than completed ones. Our brains seem to nag us about things left undone. In the 1920s, Zeigarnik noticed that waiters remembered complex orders until the payment was done, then forgot them once the task was complete.

This effect causes unfinished tasks to clutter our minds. They demand attention and resources, leading to mental fatigue. It’s about more than just lists; it’s the energy spent on unresolved items.

Gestalt Therapy: Revisiting the Past in the Present

Gestalt therapy focuses on the present. It offers insight into "unfinished business." In this therapy, "unfinished business" occurs from unexpressed thoughts and feelings from the past. It's not about replaying history for its sake; it's about how past events impact current thoughts and behavior.

The therapy encourages re-experiencing past events now, not to change history, but to explore your current feelings about those events. By stressing feelings in sessions, "unfinished business" can surface and be addressed properly.

Gestalt therapy prioritizes being present now. The past only matters because it affects the present. By confronting unfinished emotional experiences in the present, therapy promotes resolution.

"Unfinished Business" and its Impact on Relationships and Grief

"Unfinished business" complicates relationships and grief significantly. In relationships, unresolved issues or unexpressed emotions create tension and distance. It’s like carrying around emotional baggage that impacts every interaction.

In grief, "unfinished business" intensifies feelings of loss. Unresolved conflicts with a deceased loved one lead to prolonged grief. Without closure, moving on becomes difficult. It creates a sense of something important left unsaid, causing persistent pain.

Moving On: Strategies for Addressing "Unfinished Business"

How do we address this "unfinished business"? It's not simple, but strategies can help you move ahead.

• Acknowledge and identify: First, recognize your "unfinished business." Identify unresolved issues or emotions weighing you down.
• Express unexpressed emotions: This could be writing a letter, even if unsent, speaking with a therapist, or finding safe ways to express feelings.
• Address unresolved conflicts: If suitable, start conversations to resolve lingering disagreements. It may not yield desired outcomes, but addressing issues can be freeing.
• Shift expectations: Sometimes "unfinished business" arises from unmet expectations. Reframe these expectations positively. Accept what is instead of dwelling on what might have been.
• Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself in this process. Working through "unfinished business" can be challenging, so self-compassion matters.
• Focus on the present and future: While it's important to honor the past, don’t remain stuck there. Direct your focus towards what you control now and in the future.

"Unfinished Business" in the Corporate Jungle

Now, let's shift to a more practical context: business. "Unfinished business" also has defined meanings in corporate settings, especially concerning meetings and mergers.

"Unfinished Business" on the Agenda: Meetings and Matters Carried Over

In meetings, "unfinished business" refers to items from previous meetings that weren’t fully resolved. It represents the "old business" part of agendas. However, "old business" is a misnomer. "Unfinished business" means revisiting discussions that remain incomplete.

The items that didn't get actioned remain as points for future meetings. Noting them as "unfinished business" ensures they won't be overlooked in subsequent sessions.

Ending Business Relationships Gracefully: Addressing "Unfinished Business" in Partnerships

"Unfinished business" also describes ending partnerships or professional relationships gracefully. This is crucial for maintaining good reputations and potentially leaving doors open for future collaborations.

Here’s how to end a business relationship with grace:

• Acknowledge past contributions: Begin by recognizing the positives of the relationship and value added by the other party.
• State your intention clearly: Be direct about your choice to end the relationship. Avoid vagueness or beating around the bush.
• Offer a brief explanation (if necessary): You need not give lengthy reasons, but a short professional explanation can soften the impact. Focus on business reasons rather than personal issues.
• Leave room for future possibilities: Indicate openness to future collaborations or maintaining connections if suitable. This keeps goodwill intact.

The "Failing Firm Doctrine": "Unfinished Business" in Mergers and Acquisitions

In mergers and acquisitions, "unfinished business" integrates legal and economic facets with the "Failing Firm Doctrine." This doctrine serves as a defense in antitrust law allowing competitive acquisitions to proceed under certain conditions.

The idea is if a firm is failing financially and would exit the market anyway, allowing a merger might be justified when there aren’t better options. It aims to prevent worse market conditions or asset liquidation.

The threshold for using the Failing Firm Doctrine is high and varies by jurisdiction. Generally, it requires proof of impending business failure, exit of assets if blocked, and no less problematic acquirer.

"Unfinished Business" Beyond the Obvious: Other Creative Works

"Unfinished Business" resonates across many creative areas. Beyond two films we discussed, it's also a title for books, stories, and autobiographies that explore this theme uniquely.

Anne-Marie Slaughter's "Unfinished Business": Gender, Work, and Family

Anne-Marie Slaughter’s book, "Unfinished Business," examines workplace culture’s bias against parents and caregivers, primarily women. Slaughter analyzes how societal structures often force women into choosing between career growth and family duties, creating a feeling of "unfinished business" in their lives.

The book aims for a more equitable system allowing individuals to integrate work and family responsibilities without sacrificing ambitions or personal lives. It tackles gender equality's "unfinished business" in today’s workplace.

Shankari Chandran's Story: Murder, Intrigue, and Sri Lanka

Shankari Chandran’s "Unfinished Business" offers a political thriller narrative. The plot revolves around the assassination of respected political journalist Ameena Fernando in Sri Lanka, reflecting real events. CIA operative

Ellie Harper investigates the murder. She uncovers "something, but not too much." This "Unfinished Business" includes political intrigue and international espionage.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas's "Unfinished": A Memoir

Priyanka Chopra Jonas's "Unfinished" is a memoir. It is a collection of personal essays and stories from her life. It spans her two-decade career. She reflects on her roles, triumphs, and challenges. This "Unfinished" shows a career that evolves and a narrative that unfolds.

Box Office Bombs: The "Unfinished Business" of Flops

Let's talk about movie flops and "unfinished business." These films try to recoup massive losses after failing at the box office.

"Zyzzyx Road": The $30 Box Office Legend

"Zyzzyx Road" is the lowest-grossing movie in US history. It made just $30. That’s less than popcorn at most cinemas.

The release of "Zyzzyx Road" had unique circumstances. Made for international distribution, it required a US theatrical release due to a SAG contract. The producers rented a small theater for six days. They showed it once a day at noon. This is how it achieved box office "history."

Imagine those few people who actually paid to see "Zyzzyx Road." It’s definitely a conversation starter.

Other Cinematic Sinkholes

"Zyzzyx Road" leads the low box office earners, but other films failed too:

• "Storage 24" (2012): Earned $72 at the box office. People weren’t interested in... storage units.
• "The Worst Movie Ever!" (2011): With that title, they aimed for irony. But it only earned $11.

Big Budget Bombs

While low-grossing films barely registered, big-budget flops represent another type of "unfinished business." These movies cost much to make, yet they fail. They leave studios with huge losses.

"John Carter": Disney’s $255 Million Flop

"John Carter" (2012) is a Disney epic often called a huge flop. It cost a fortune but lost about $255 million. That’s a lot of mouse ears worth.

What went wrong? Marketing missteps and audience confusion played roles. The story did not resonate with viewers. This made "John Carter" a cautionary tale, showing that even Disney's magic does not guarantee success.

Notable Box Office Black Holes

"John Carter" leads in failures but has many companions:

• "The Lone Ranger" (2013): Another Disney flop, starring Johnny Depp, failed to attract audiences.
• "The 13th Warrior" (1999): This action film failed with both history buffs and action fans.
• "Mortal Engines" (2018): A visually ambitious but narratively weak adventure that stalled.
• "Mars Needs Moms" (2011): Disney's costly animated venture lost a lot of its $150 million budget.
• "Jungle Cruise" (2021): Even with stars Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt, this film lost an estimated $150 million.
• "Mulan" (2020) & "Turning Red" (2022): Despite their merits, they are among Disney's biggest recent flops.
• "Cutthroat Island" (1995): This pirate film cost $98 million and grossed barely over $10 million.
• "Showgirls" (1995): Although it flopped hard, it turned into a cult classic.
• "Alexander" (2004): Oliver Stone’s film struggled at the box office with a $150 million budget.
• "Speed Racer" (2008): A colorful adaptation that failed to engage audiences.

Robert Redford: A Life (Mostly) Finished

Now, back to Robert Redford, star of "An Unfinished Life." His life and career are hardly "unfinished." He embraces retirement from acting.

Redford Today: Santa Fe and Semi-Retirement

Where is Robert Redford now? As of March 11th, he enjoys the New Mexico sun in Santa Fe. He and his wife, Sibylle Szaggars, spend much time there. Sibylle runs an art gallery called Sibylle Szaggars Redford Fine Art.

Recently, Redford and his wife sold their California home to focus on art in Santa Fe. They embrace a quieter life.

Although he retired in 2018, Redford still makes appearances. He was in the show "Dark Winds." Even in retirement, acting can be tempting. He is involved with the Sundance Institute, producing projects like "Dark Winds."

Redford's Wife and Family

Sibylle Szaggars is Robert Redford’s wife. She is a painter and environmental advocate. They met at Sundance Mountain Resort. She was born in Hamburg, Germany.

Redford was previously married to Lola Van Wagenen since 1958. He has four children from that marriage. Now he enjoys love with Sibylle.

Redford's Best Movies

What are Robert Redford's best films? Critics often have their top picks:

• "All Is Lost" (2013): A survival drama where Redford delivers a strong performance at sea.
• "All the President's Men" (1976): A political thriller with Redford as Bob Woodward.
• "The Old Man & the Gun" (2018): Considered his swan song in this charming crime tale.
• "The Sting" (1973): A stylish con-artist story with Paul Newman.
• "Captain America: The Winter Soldier" (2014): He surprised viewers in the Marvel universe.
• "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" (1969): Another iconic duo with Paul Newman.
• "Our Souls at Night" (2017): A romantic film with Jane Fonda showcasing his charisma.
• "Pete's Dragon" (2016): A touching family movie featuring Redford as a storyteller.

"The Things We Leave Unfinished": Love, Loss, and Literary Twists

Let's conclude with "The Things We Leave Unfinished," an adjacent title exploring themes of love and loss.

Plot Twists and Emotional Scars

This book tells stories across timelines, examining risks we take for love. It shows how scars linger after loss.

and the challenge of finding closure.

The book has a plot twist that adds emotional depth. It involves a manuscript and letters. There is a real-life World War II romance that mirrors the story. The ending is not a simple happy ever after. It reflects the complexities of love and life.

This story is fictional but inspired by real experiences. It highlights the romances and sacrifices of World War II. This lends authenticity to the narrative's emotional core.

Characters and Connections: Family Ties and Generational Stories

The book explores family relationships and generational connections. Characters like Scarlett, William, Ava, and Georgia weave their stories together. Their tales reveal layers of love, loss, and resilience.

Georgia's mother is Ava. Scarlett is her great-grandmother. This lineage shows strong women navigating love and challenges. The relationships shape the narrative and reveal how past events affect present realities.

"Unfinished Business" in Relationships: Why We Obsess and How to Let Go

Let’s return to personal experiences and explore "unfinished business" in relationships. Why do we fixate on relationships that have ended or feel unresolved? What steps can we take to break free from that cycle?

Obsessing