Every great application has an origin story, and this one comes straight from Hollywood — specifically, from the 1979 Academy Award-winning picture "Breaking Away".
"You're late. Here's your windows, here's your rag, and uh... don't forget to punch the clock, shorty."
— The Boss, Breaking Away (1979)
In this memorable scene, Moocher (portrayed by Jackie Earle Haley) lands employment at a car wash and encounters a wonderfully crabby supervisor who delivers this iconic line. In response, our rebellious protagonist wraps his rag around one fist and literally punches that time clock — smashing it completely! This moment perfectly captures his defiant spirit and has resonated with viewers for decades.
That memorable quote stuck with our developer for years. When building a time tracking tool became reality, there was really only one name that felt right. And so, "Don't Forget to Punch the Clock, Shorty!" was born — a humble tribute to classic cinema and a reminder that sometimes inspiration arrives from unexpected places.
About the Picture
Title: Breaking Away
Year: 1979
Director: Peter Yates
Academy Award: Best Original Screenplay
Nominations: 5 total, including Best Picture
Setting: Bloomington, Indiana
The Cast: Meet the Cutters
These four friends called themselves "Cutters" — a name drawn from their town's limestone cutting industry that defined their working-class roots and identity.
Dennis Christopher as Dave "The Dreamer"
Dennis Christopher brought Dave Stoller to life — the cycling-obsessed dreamer who pretends to be Italian. Christopher's breakout performance earned him a BAFTA nomination. He later appeared in "Chariots of Fire" (1981) and "Django Unchained" (2012). His portrayal of infectious enthusiasm and eventual self-discovery remains at the heart of this story.
Dennis Quaid as Mike "The Leader"
Dennis Quaid portrayed Mike, the bitter former high school football star struggling with life after graduation. This early performance helped launch Quaid's career, leading to starring positions in "The Right Stuff" (1983), "Innerspace" (1987), and "The Parent Trap" (1998). His intensity and vulnerability made Mike an emotional anchor for the group.
Daniel Stern as Cyril "The Brain"
Daniel Stern embodied Cyril, the tall, thoughtful member with dry wit and philosophical outlook. Stern went on to become a household name as Marv in "Home Alone" (1990) and its sequel, while providing iconic narration for "The Wonder Years" (1988-1993). His comedic timing in this picture hinted at talent that would define his future success.
Jackie Earle Haley as Moocher "The Puncher"
Jackie Earle Haley brought Moocher to life — small in stature but mighty in spirit. At 5'5", the "shorty" nickname fit perfectly. Haley first gained fame in "Bad News Bears" (1976), then reinvented himself decades later as Rorschach in "Watchmen" (2009) and Freddy Krueger in "A Nightmare on Elm Street" (2010). He earned an Oscar nomination for "Little Children" (2006). His Moocher persona represented every underdog refusing to back down.
The Story That Inspired Us
"Breaking Away" (1979) follows four working-class friends in Bloomington, Indiana struggling to find their place after high school, while Dave obsesses over Italian cycling and drives everyone crazy with his antics. Their journey resonates because it captures universal experiences: identity, friendship, ambition, and finding your path forward.
"Breaking Away" (1979) — Four working-class friends in Bloomington, Indiana struggle to find their place after high school, while Dave obsesses over Italian cycling and drives everyone crazy.
Why This App Exists
This time tracking solution was built with love and humor. Because if you're going to track your hours, you might as well have a memorable name accompanying that daily routine. Our pricing tiers honor each character's unique traits, creating a playful nod to this beloved classic.
Whether you identify as a dreamer, leader, thinker, or that scrappy Moocher refusing to take orders, we've created something special. Every time you log your hours, remember: even Jackie Earle Haley started somewhere, punching clocks before becoming an acclaimed actor.
Your work deserves recognition. Your time has value. And sometimes, rebellion against boring corporate tools is exactly what you need.