Licorice Pizza
Movie Trailer
Release Date
November 26, 2021
Genre
Comedy, Drama, Romance
Cast & Crew
- Alana Haim as Alana Kane
- Cooper Hoffman as Gary Valentine
- Sean Penn as Jack Holden
- Tom Waits as Rex Blau
- Bradley Cooper as Jon Peters
- Benny Safdie as Joel Wachs
- Maya Rudolph as Gale
Director
Paul Thomas Anderson
Other Movies Director is Known For:
- There Will Be Blood (2007)
- Boogie Nights (1997)
- Phantom Thread (2017)
- Magnolia (1999)
Producer
Paul Thomas Anderson
Sara Murphy
Adam Somner
Writer
Paul Thomas Anderson
Budget
$40 million
Production Company
MGM
Focus Features
Ghoulardi Film Company
Running Time
133 minutes
Languages
English (Original)
Maturity Rating
R
Content Advisory
- Language
- Sexual content
- Drug use
- Some mature themes
Movie Story
Licorice Pizza is a nostalgic coming-of-age story set in the San Fernando Valley in 1973, capturing the highs and lows of adolescence and first love. The film follows the unlikely relationship between Alana Kane (Alana Haim), a 25-year-old photographer’s assistant, and Gary Valentine (Cooper Hoffman), a 15-year-old child actor turned entrepreneur. Despite the age difference, the two form a close bond, navigating the challenges of youth, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams in a world that is both chaotic and full of possibilities.
The story begins when Gary meets Alana at his high school on picture day, and despite their age gap, he is immediately smitten and confidently asks her out. Alana, intrigued by Gary’s audacity and charm, agrees to spend time with him. What follows is a series of misadventures that sees the two starting a waterbed business, navigating the highs and lows of 1970s Los Angeles, and encountering a colorful array of characters, including real-life Hollywood personalities like producer Jon Peters (Bradley Cooper) and actor Jack Holden (Sean Penn).
As they move through different ventures and face various challenges, Alana and Gary’s relationship evolves, exploring themes of love, friendship, and the complexities of growing up. The film captures the freewheeling spirit of the 1970s, with a particular focus on the music, fashion, and cultural shifts of the era. Anderson’s direction brings a warm, nostalgic glow to the film, making it a love letter to a bygone time, while also delving into the emotional turbulence of young love.
Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman, both newcomers to film, deliver captivating performances that bring authenticity and depth to their roles. Their chemistry drives the narrative, making their journey both relatable and endearing. The film’s mix of humor, drama, and romance, combined with Anderson’s keen eye for detail and character, makes Licorice Pizza a unique and heartfelt exploration of youth and the complexities of life.
Special Effects
Licorice Pizza does not rely heavily on special effects, instead focusing on authentic production design and period-accurate details to create a vivid portrayal of 1970s Los Angeles. The film’s cinematography, using natural light and carefully composed shots, adds to the nostalgic and immersive atmosphere, making the era feel alive and vibrant. The use of practical locations and vintage props further enhances the authenticity of the setting.
Box Office Performance
Licorice Pizza received critical acclaim upon its release and grossed over $33 million worldwide. The film was celebrated for its performances, direction, and screenplay, becoming a favorite during the awards season. While its box office performance was modest, it found success as a critical darling and solidified Paul Thomas Anderson’s reputation as one of the most distinct voices in contemporary cinema.
Filming Locations
- San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Encino, California, USA
- Tarzana, California, USA
- Canoga Park, California, USA
Notable Quotes
- “Do you think it’s weird I hang out with Gary and his friends all the time?” – Alana Kane
- “I met the girl I’m gonna marry one day.” – Gary Valentine
- “You’re not supposed to call a girl a pinball. It’s a game, you jackass!” – Alana Kane
Behind-the-Scenes
Paul Thomas Anderson cast Alana Haim, a member of the band Haim, and Cooper Hoffman, the son of the late actor Philip Seymour Hoffman, in their first major film roles, bringing a fresh and authentic energy to the characters. The film was shot on location in the San Fernando Valley, where Anderson grew up, lending a personal touch to the story. Anderson drew from his own memories of the 1970s and the stories of those around him to craft a narrative that feels both personal and universal.
Awards
- Nominated for Best Picture at the 2022 Academy Awards
- Nominated for Best Director (Paul Thomas Anderson) at the 2022 Academy Awards
- Nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the 2022 Academy Awards
- Won Best Film at the 2022 National Board of Review Awards
Final Verdict
Licorice Pizza is a charming and nostalgic film that beautifully captures the essence of youth, love, and the 1970s. With standout performances from its two leads, Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman, and Paul Thomas Anderson’s masterful direction, the film is a heartfelt and humorous exploration of the complexities of growing up. It’s a delightful mix of romance, comedy, and drama, making it a must-watch for fans of character-driven stories and 1970s Americana.
IMDb Rating
7.2/10