This suspenseful film, directed by Richard Kelly and released in 2009, delves into the lives of couple, Norma and Arthur Lewis. One day, they receive a mysterious box on their doorstep. Arlington Steward, a peculiar man, pays them a visit and explains the consequences of the gift. If they press the button, they will win one million dollars. But at what cost? A stranger in the world will die because of it. Time is not on their side as they have 24 hours to make this life altering decision. The Box really explores the dynamics of human nature and morality, making you ponder what you would do in the Lewis’ shoes.
Cameron Diaz phenomenally plays the role of Norma Lewis. Her husband, Arthur Lewis, is acted out by James Marsden.Their son, Walter Lewis, is portrayed by Sam Oz Stone. Frank Langella assumes the character of Arlington Steward.
The movie was primarily filmed in Boston and Virginia:
- Some scenes took place on the Milton Academy campus and at Boston Public Library.
- In order to recreate a NASA laboratory, a set was built inside a former Lucent Technologies building in North Andover.
- The crew also filmed at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia.
- Scenes were even filmed in Richmond, Virginia, such as some overhead shots of the 95 South passing the train station.
Some interesting facts:
- Norma and Arthur Lewis’ characters were based on the director’s parents. For example, Richard Kelly’s mom also had an injured foot and his father also worked for NASA.
- The movie is based on the short story, Button, Button (1970), written by Richard Matheson.
- Richard Kelly was originally against shooting a 1970’s set movie with a digital camera. However, after seeing David Fincher’s Zodiac (2007), his mind changed.