10 items or Less is one of those small films where the producers call out the fact that they made it in 15 days and on a tight budget. Sometimes that works and sometimes it doesn't but in this case, it does. The scope of the film is, of necessity, very small. Morgan Freeman, playing himself, goes into a Mexican grocery store to do some research for a part and encounters Scarlet (Paz Vega) working in the titular "10 Items or Less" checkout aisle. Fascinated by her spunk, spirit and amazing ability to spot violators with more than 10 items with a single glance, he begins to interact with her. Soon, the two develop a quick rapport and he learns about her aspiration to get a better job and decides to help her, becoming a sort of impromptu life coach as the two spend the day talking, shopping and encouraging each other.

The film works because the interaction between Freeman and Scarlet rings true, both to their characters and to our struggles with daily questions of self-confidence and aspiration. Freeman adds a number of almost-too-sweet moments in the montages in between conversations as he takes on a playful role with a kid in the carwash, the carwashers and other people the pair encounter. In the end, we really do care about Scarlet and root for her as she finds herself changed by the day spent with Freeman.

At the end, the two admit openly that they probably won't see each other again, and that again rings true to so many of the chance encounters with random folks that may end up adding a thought or experience to the growth of our lives, although we're rarely lucky enough to have an extended interaction with a stranger like that portrayed in this film. A worthwhile film.

Recommended:
Yes

Viewing Format: DVD
Video Occasion: Good for a Rainy Day
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children Age 13 and Older