I watched Licorice Pizza and I hated it. 1/5
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Paul Thomas Anderson‘s “Licorice Pizza” is a cinematic endeavor that left me baffled and unsatisfied, a film that seems to revel in its own quirkiness to the detriment of any meaningful substance. Set against the backdrop of 1970s California, it attempts to capture a sense of nostalgia but ultimately ends up feeling like a disjointed collection of oddities.
The narrative, if it can be called that, follows the unlikely romantic entanglement between a 15-year-old aspiring actor, Gary Valentine (played by Cooper Hoffman), and a 25-year-old woman, Alana Kane (played by Alana Haim). This age gap is not only morally questionable but also contributes to a sense of discomfort throughout the film. The attempts to normalize this relationship by labeling it as “coming of age” or “unconventional love” are unconvincing and only serve to further muddle the narrative.
While the film attempts to portray the hazy, dreamlike quality of the 1970s, it often veers into incoherence. The scenes meander without a clear sense of direction, and the dialogue often feels like a collection of disconnected musings rather than meaningful exchanges. It’s a frustrating viewing experience, leaving one longing for a cohesive narrative thread to latch onto.
Furthermore, the characters themselves lack depth or development. Gary is portrayed as a directionless teenager with dreams of becoming an actor, but his motivations and desires are never fully explored. Alana, on the other hand, is equally enigmatic, leaving the audience to question her choices and the nature of her relationship with Gary. Their interactions are often marked by awkward silences and disjointed conversations that fail to establish a compelling connection between them.
The film’s attempts at humor also fall flat. The comedic elements feel forced and contrived, relying on quirky situations and eccentric characters rather than genuine wit. Moments that are meant to elicit laughter often come across as awkward or uncomfortable, further contributing to the film’s lack of coherence.
Visually, “Licorice Pizza” offers little to redeem its narrative shortcomings. The cinematography, while competent, fails to create a distinct visual identity for the film. Scenes are captured with a pedestrian approach that does little to enhance the viewing experience. The 1970s setting, while meticulously recreated, feels like a superficial veneer rather than an integral part of the storytelling.
One of the film’s few redeeming qualities is the soundtrack, which features a selection of iconic songs from the era. The music serves as a nostalgic backdrop, evoking a sense of the time and place in which the story unfolds. However, even this well-curated soundtrack feels like a superficial attempt to inject authenticity into a film that lacks it at its core.
In conclusion, “Licorice Pizza” is a perplexing cinematic experience that left me questioning its critical acclaim. Its attempts at quirky charm and unconventional romance ultimately fall flat, leaving behind a sense of dissatisfaction. While some may find merit in its idiosyncrasies, I found myself yearning for a more coherent and meaningful narrative. This licorice-flavored confection may leave a sweet taste for some, but for me, it was a bitter disappointment.