Read Positive User Reviews for Licorice Pizza

10

RightThenNov 28, 2021

One of the best films of the year. Funny, warm, and a lot of fun. Alana Haim is wonderful.

15 of 19 users found this helpful154

All this user's reviews

10

LuisTorres_Nov 28, 2021

Alana Haim is so good and star of the movie well acted and well filmed, I love it

9 of 12 users found this helpful93

All this user's reviews

10

sophielevittNov 27, 2021

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The movie is absolutely incredible. Alana and Cooper's acting debuts are tremendous. I'm not even that big of a movie person but this was amazing. It kept me entertained the full time (and I have ADHD!) The scenes are humorous and it's certainly true to the 70s, to me. It might cover a 'taboo' topic but it's platonic by nature and the film explores it, not sexualizes it. Bonus points because it made me feel represented as a Jew lol… Expand

10 of 14 users found this helpful104

All this user's reviews

9

livinmediocreDec 12, 2021

I really loved this movie a lot. Not my favorite PTA, it feels a bit messy for what we’re used to. Just like a lot of ideas were thrown together to make the film feel more like 70s LA than actually being used to better the film and understandI really loved this movie a lot. Not my favorite PTA, it feels a bit messy for what we’re used to. Just like a lot of ideas were thrown together to make the film feel more like 70s LA than actually being used to better the film and understand the characters. That being said, they did a really great job of 70s LA. Loved the set designs as well as wardrobe, very very nice attention to details.

The soundtrack and cinematography were nothing short of stellar. And wow Cooper Hoffman and Alana Haim blew me way with their performances. Can’t wait to see them in more things, and Bradley Cooper went OFF as Jon Peters. Love them all.

Overall though I did really enjoy it, had a great time seeing this in a packed theater. Probably my favorite theater experience of the year!

Full review on theotherfilmguys.com… Expand

7 of 10 users found this helpful73

All this user's reviews

10

kmkureNov 27, 2021

This was great. Paul thomas anderson created another masterpiece again.....

10 of 15 users found this helpful105

All this user's reviews

10

BeastJ18Nov 26, 2021

This is the first film in a long time that felt like magic to me. It transported me, mesmerised me, intoxicated me, shocked me, astounded me... The perfectly executed cinematography, editing, sound design, art direction, performances,This is the first film in a long time that felt like magic to me. It transported me, mesmerised me, intoxicated me, shocked me, astounded me... The perfectly executed cinematography, editing, sound design, art direction, performances, writing, continue to prove that Paul Thomas Anderson is most likely the greatest director of this century, and cement this film as hands down the best film of 2021. The dynamic, execution and chemistry of the two leads is electric and leaves me trapped, wanting to see more of their adventures. I knew this film would be great, because it's PTA, but I didn't expect to love it this much.… Expand

8 of 13 users found this helpful85

All this user's reviews

10

LgrewDec 11, 2021

Laughed…cried…yeah…great movie! Alana Haim movie star, one of the best films of the year

6 of 10 users found this helpful64

All this user's reviews

8

JLuis_001Dec 2, 2021

Licorice Pizza is actually a very light film. And there's nothing wrong with that.
It's basically a dreamy vision of an era. Mostly about youth.
The plot is the least important thing about it. What we are offered is two young folks played byLicorice Pizza is actually a very light film. And there's nothing wrong with that.
It's basically a dreamy vision of an era. Mostly about youth.

The plot is the least important thing about it. What we are offered is two young folks played by Cooper Hoffman, and Alana Haim.
Both making their debut in front of the cameras, in a story that is pleasantly unexpected.

You never really know where it's headed, but the journey doesn't stop being interesting, and for that reason, even if it doesn't seem like the story will have some sort of message in its final passage, it also manages to make you want to know where it will end.

The chemistry of his central characters is the best thing Anderson could have aspired to as their director, because although the plot makes it clear that in their relationship there's a notorious age difference, their dynamic, though platonic, shows us a happy youthful experience, with them having fun, working, flirting, wanting to make each other believe that they are not really interested in each other.

Along the way they fall in love with other people while avoiding their true feelings, and that dynamic, along with all the other experiences they go through, even when they are apart, are the strength of this film.
We see their relationship constantly evolve, and that really constitutes the entire narrative arc of this story.
It's simple, but it's quite effective.

Its conclusion is inevitably romantic, sugarcoated.
But while one could argue that this feels like a safe, predictable passage, Anderson makes it all flow in a genuine way, and that's a very hard thing to pull off.
Because the detail here isn't that it builds a too-good-to-be-true idyll, but that this feels entirely natural within the process the story goes through.
If you as a viewer are able to buy everything else, but not its ending, I think your own expectations have played a trick on you.

At the conclusion we realize that we didn't really get anywhere. But when an adventure is fun and endearing, its denouement is usually the point you remember the least fondly.
Certainly, I'll always root for films to have a solid ending, but with Licorice Pizza the journey is more than enjoyable, and it comes to an end because it has to, and because I actually think Anderson himself understood perfectly well, that after that point, there really wasn't anything more to say.

This film is really going into my 2021 Top Ten.… Expand

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

All this user's reviews

10

superduperrandoDec 8, 2021

This has been an extraordinarily weak year in film due to a combination of pandemic and the general decline of art under late-stage capitalism. That said, if you don't find yourself solidly entertained by this little slice of joy, then youThis has been an extraordinarily weak year in film due to a combination of pandemic and the general decline of art under late-stage capitalism. That said, if you don't find yourself solidly entertained by this little slice of joy, then you must not be in the mood for it.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

All this user's reviews

7

TVJerryDec 28, 2021

First off, not only is a relationship between a 15-year-old boy and a 25-year-old woman unusual, it’s also illegal. Perhaps because it takes place in 1973, we’re not supposed to care. Anyway, he (Cooper Hoffman, son of Philip Seymour) and sheFirst off, not only is a relationship between a 15-year-old boy and a 25-year-old woman unusual, it’s also illegal. Perhaps because it takes place in 1973, we’re not supposed to care. Anyway, he (Cooper Hoffman, son of Philip Seymour) and she (Alana Haim of the band Haim with her sisters and parents playing themselves) amble around LA while the story rambles. They flirt, start a business and meet unusual people (segments starring Bradley Cooper and Sean Penn are interesting, but add nothing to the story). Hoffman has a sweet young charm, while Haim comes off mostly flat. Writer/director Paul Thomas Anderson has indulged himself with random encounters that give him a chance to flex his skills without creating much of a gratifying narrative. Even though it’s never explained, the title refers to a former chain of record stores. NOTE: There are a number of stars in cameos, but listen for Anderson regular John C. Reilly’s distinctive voice at the entrance of the Teen Fair.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

All this user's reviews

10

SergeiWalankovDec 31, 2021

I'd have liked it a shade more with a different ending, but a wonderful film on the whole, superbly acted and with brilliant period detail. I've bumped my mark up a notch or two to help cancel out the moronic losers who have piled on withI'd have liked it a shade more with a different ending, but a wonderful film on the whole, superbly acted and with brilliant period detail. I've bumped my mark up a notch or two to help cancel out the moronic losers who have piled on with negative marks for some undoubtedly stupid reason.… Expand

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

All this user's reviews

10

snorkissFeb 20, 2022

With SO much utter garbage out there in film-land nowadays this movie has to be a ten, it's everything I love about good cinema. If you haven't seen it see it, and if you have seen it see it again! - 10 Fat Bernies

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

All this user's reviews

7

katezoeJan 8, 2022

We liked "Licorice Pizza" although we thought it was too long. The acting by Hoffman and Haim is excellent.

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

All this user's reviews

9

alejandro970Mar 2, 2022

What makes this story of youth romance of first love interesting is that P.T.Anderson knew how to give it a more personal stamp, without clichés and alluding to typical topics of the 70s, related to politics, to go no further. What if it'sWhat makes this story of youth romance of first love interesting is that P.T.Anderson knew how to give it a more personal stamp, without clichés and alluding to typical topics of the 70s, related to politics, to go no further. What if it's worth the ticket? Of course yes.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

All this user's reviews

7

booondMar 20, 2022

Enjoyable if you try not to think too hard about the relationship between a 15-year-old schemer and a 25-year-old who wants to return to the safety of high school. The lightness of the movie and the accurate capture of the life of a 1970'sEnjoyable if you try not to think too hard about the relationship between a 15-year-old schemer and a 25-year-old who wants to return to the safety of high school. The lightness of the movie and the accurate capture of the life of a 1970's teen are the best parts of the movie. It never gets deeper than topsoil.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

All this user's reviews

10

internethandle7Nov 29, 2021

The people complaining about a PTA movie being disjointed make me laugh. Same for the rote “guhh sTaTuAToRy rApE!!” culture war grievance takes. Really wonderful film.

6 of 14 users found this helpful68

All this user's reviews

9

kirkenderDec 29, 2021

I love this movie. Cooper Hoffman and Alana Haim anchor the show, but the supporting cast really fills the world. Bradley Cooper as Jon Peters is so amazingly funny. It's a really well made and super entertaining flick. Initially the loveI love this movie. Cooper Hoffman and Alana Haim anchor the show, but the supporting cast really fills the world. Bradley Cooper as Jon Peters is so amazingly funny. It's a really well made and super entertaining flick. Initially the love story between a 15 year old boy and a 25 year old woman seems a bit strange, but remember, 99% of film involves a much older man with a very young woman. I'm not saying it's right, but like, if you are going to complain about that aspect you need to stop watching all media. My only quibble with the film is the soundtrack is a bit cliché, and that David Bowie's Life on Mars needs to be retired permanently.… Expand

3 of 7 users found this helpful34

All this user's reviews

8

GemsicleJan 3, 2022

Like another romance drama, but not as simple as it sounds. You will get the feeling that you will have to watch this film twice to maximize retention, which is a technique that Paul Thomas Anderson is enamored to.

3 of 7 users found this helpful34

All this user's reviews

10

andrempFeb 5, 2022

A beautiful meandering film with genuine warmth. I also found there to be a slight feeling of danger lurking beneath the surface, which made it all more interesting.

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

All this user's reviews

10

Moviefan1313Jan 2, 2022

Really enjoyed this one. Alana Haim in phenomenal and one of the best debut performances I’ve seen in my lifetime.

3 of 8 users found this helpful35

All this user's reviews

10

mitposJan 4, 2022

I don't see why the snowflakes got so mad at this, I had a wonderful time. And with this movie's "racism," I see a larger debate needed to be sparked about the ethics of cultural appropriation for the sake of comedy.

3 of 8 users found this helpful35

All this user's reviews

9

davemelbourne58Dec 25, 2021

It took me about 20 minutes for me to finally get into the "groove" of this movie, and when I let it wash over me, I really enjoyed the ride. Alana Haim and her real-life family are the real break-out stars of this movie, and it's erieIt took me about 20 minutes for me to finally get into the "groove" of this movie, and when I let it wash over me, I really enjoyed the ride. Alana Haim and her real-life family are the real break-out stars of this movie, and it's erie watching Cooper Hoffman, who really is the son of Philip Seymore Hoffman. It's uncanny. But I loved all the characters and various storylines that Licorice Pizza weaves in and out of. PTA defintely got the look and feel of 1970's America. His music choices were great slices of Licorice Pizza, too. Roll with it. Props to Bradley Cooper, too.… Expand

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

All this user's reviews

8

MetacriticOnurFeb 19, 2022

excellent
[ ek-suh-luhnt ]

adjective
possessing outstanding quality or superior merit; remarkably good.

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

All this user's reviews

10

lucasmorlimFeb 21, 2022

That's a movie.

How I miss good movies, those that make us immerse ourselves in the story being told, that are made for entertainment and exercise the ability to watch a story, regardless of the physical characteristics of the characters.That's a movie.

How I miss good movies, those that make us immerse ourselves in the story being told, that are made for entertainment and exercise the ability to watch a story, regardless of the physical characteristics of the characters. Hollywood, please stop staring at your own belly button, make art. Nobody is interested in your political agenda, look for a rally and be happy on your own.

For more movies like this, for art, for true entertainment, for beauty. Thanks, PTA!… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

All this user's reviews

10

moviemitch96Dec 24, 2021

The latest from writer/director Paul Thomas Anderson ('Boogie Nights', 'There Will be Blood') sees a young teen actor (Cooper Hoffman, son of the late great Philip Seymour Hoffman) meeting and falling for a rebellious older girl (Alana Haim)The latest from writer/director Paul Thomas Anderson ('Boogie Nights', 'There Will be Blood') sees a young teen actor (Cooper Hoffman, son of the late great Philip Seymour Hoffman) meeting and falling for a rebellious older girl (Alana Haim) and getting into all sorts of trouble and misadventures with her in 70s San Fernando Valley. Anderson happens to be one of my favorite filmmakers of all time. While his aforementioned films 'Boogie Nights' and 'There Will be Blood' are considered some of his greatest films (and rightfully so), not enough people talk about his 3-hr epic 'Magnolia', which I not only consider his best and most underrated film, but it also happens to be my favorite film of all time, but I digress. So whenever he comes out with a new film, it's always a treat for me. Going into this film based off the previews and ads I had been seeing for it, I knew this film was going to be something really special, and I couldn't have been more right, because this is truly the most I've enjoyed myself watching a film all year! I was all smiles from start to finish watching this exuberant and joyful film! Filled with all-too-relatable characters (at least for me it was), hilarious and heartfelt moments throughout, and a "will they or won't they" love story that you just can't help but root for. As for the performances, the real stars here are Haim and Hoffman, who's chemistry with one another is simply irresistible, and both give what I'd easily consider star-making performances! Other familiar supporting faces pop in throughout as well, such as Sean Penn and Bradley Cooper, who both notably give scene-stealing performances of their own. Other elements such as captivating cinematography (a decent amount of long takes and tracking shots are utilized very effectively) and the use of several great classic rock songs were also great standouts to me! Overall, I must say that not only is this Anderson's best film in years, but it might even just be my favorite film of the year! It's so undeniably charming and shouldn't be missed! Bravo!… Expand

2 of 8 users found this helpful26

All this user's reviews

9

beno1998Dec 27, 2021

A wonderful story told through the eyes of two young people in love. I really enjoyed this film; the story and acting were excellent.

1 of 7 users found this helpful16

All this user's reviews

8

tonyGreenMar 22, 2022

For P.T.Anderson this is a relatively small, low-key film in comparison to some of his previous films, and a welcome return to comedy after several more serious psychological dramas. The casting is perfect, and the film is a totallyFor P.T.Anderson this is a relatively small, low-key film in comparison to some of his previous films, and a welcome return to comedy after several more serious psychological dramas. The casting is perfect, and the film is a totally immersive return to the San Fernando Valley, this time in the early 1970s amongst the start of the oil crisis. Not a demanding watch, but satisfying all the same.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

9

bertobellamyFeb 25, 2022

Ok, I'm 32, and, of course, didn't live in the '70s; but now I kind of feel like I did after watching this. And don't get me wrong, 'Licorice Pizza' is no cheap nostalgia; this is a tribute to the complexities of an era long gone: the goodOk, I'm 32, and, of course, didn't live in the '70s; but now I kind of feel like I did after watching this. And don't get me wrong, 'Licorice Pizza' is no cheap nostalgia; this is a tribute to the complexities of an era long gone: the good and the bad. And, incredibly, Paul Thomas Anderson didn't live in these times per se. This is like a memory brought back to life.

Now someone please put together a drive-in screening of 'American Graffiti,' 'Dazed and Confused' and 'Licorice Pizza' and call it: "Back to the Future."… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

All this user's reviews

7

IndiefilmloverJan 10, 2022

A basic concept of a romance is you're supposed to be rooting for the central couple to get together. That's kind of hard to do when the couple involves a 15-year-old boy and a woman in her mid-20s. Given the fact that the woman isA basic concept of a romance is you're supposed to be rooting for the central couple to get together. That's kind of hard to do when the couple involves a 15-year-old boy and a woman in her mid-20s. Given the fact that the woman is unremarkable in virtually every aspect, it severely limits her appeal to boy as nothing more than vessel to lose one's virginity. While the boy is charming and loaded with ambition, the woman comes across as vapid and rudderless. Working as a photographer's assistant, she even confesses to the young man that she expects to still be working in the same position ten years later. As a story about a friendship between two opposites the film works much better. Through the course of the film, you begin to get the sense that they truly care about each other. Set in the San Fernando Valley section of Los Angeles in 1973, the film is a nostalgia trip of various goings-on on at that time, but writer/director Paul Thomas Anderson goes a bit overboard with the details. Unless you grew up in that era or relate to specific details about the characters (e.g., religion, hobbies, interests), you'll find the film overlong and meandering. That being said, the film is mostly entertaining with a fair amount of charm.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

All this user's reviews

7

Compi24Jan 19, 2022

I still can't 100% stand behind the film's central relationship in good faith, but the overall experience of "Licorice Pizza" remains decidedly enjoyable, with the film's breezy feel and goofiness ultimately winning me over. I actually alsoI still can't 100% stand behind the film's central relationship in good faith, but the overall experience of "Licorice Pizza" remains decidedly enjoyable, with the film's breezy feel and goofiness ultimately winning me over. I actually also really enjoyed the episodic nature of things at hand as well, with the part-by-part, "a year in the life" approach to the narrative hearkening back to movies like "Lady Bird," "Dazed And Confused" and even "Napoleon Dynamite" for me. Sure, there's a bit of an overarching story, but still it's all a bit loose, which is cool. This also really does feel like a culmination of a lot of different throughlines within Paul Thomas Anderson's career. Cooper Hoffman (son of frequent collaborator Philip Seymour Hoffman) and Alana Haim (member of the band Haim, for whom Anderson's directed several music videos for) star, with the plot involving real-life characters and events that influenced Anderson's childhood. Kind of a neat assortment of details. Again, it's by no means my favorite of Anderson's, but I don't regret watching it overall.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

9

RMckayFeb 26, 2022

As per usual, PT Anderson does not disappoint! I was a bit worried, because I wasn't too fond of his Pynchon adaptation, Inherent Vice. But I love every other PT film, so I of course didn't want to shut the door on it, just because of oneAs per usual, PT Anderson does not disappoint! I was a bit worried, because I wasn't too fond of his Pynchon adaptation, Inherent Vice. But I love every other PT film, so I of course didn't want to shut the door on it, just because of one stinker. Phantom Thread was enjoyable, but I wouldn't write home about it. But here with Licorice, PT kicks it back to a feeling of Boogie Nights sans the sex meets Punch Drunk Love, and then twist it into a coming of age piece. It plays out in vignettes and the passage of time is never fully clarified, to evoke a nostalgic feeling. Like this is all being pulled from Gary Valentine's adult memory and only the important parts stick out, just like how real people remember things. Great editing and smooth flow to pull off such a feat of nostalgia, with great YA performances all around, and some great but not contrived cameos! Loved it. One of the best of the year, and one of the best coming of age stories of the decade. PT nailed it once more.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

All this user's reviews

10

PanchogulMar 25, 2022

Un 6.7 es una puntuación demasiado baja para una película tan bella y encantadora.

Desde el momento en el que Alana y Gary se conocen crean un vínculo instantáneo con el espectador, empiezas a formar parte de su historia y te vuelves aUn 6.7 es una puntuación demasiado baja para una película tan bella y encantadora.

Desde el momento en el que Alana y Gary se conocen crean un vínculo instantáneo con el espectador, empiezas a formar parte de su historia y te vuelves a merced de sus acciones, crean una complicidad que es compartida, a veces no entiendes el por qué, pero es una sensación adictiva e hipnótica. Definitivamente Licorice Pizza fue una de las mejores películas del 2021 y posiblemente de la década, aunque pienso que Alana Haim merecía mas reconocimiento como actriz y ser incluida en las nominaciones al Oscar.

Larga vida a esta película, las emociones quee transmitió no las sentía desde hace muchos años … Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

9

MarkTakayamaJan 6, 2022

It was a sweet and romantic comedy of 16 years old boy and 25 years lady. Great movie. I just want to put one comment about Japanese ladies. They refused to shake hands, then bowed. It never happened. If some Japanese ladies married AmericansIt was a sweet and romantic comedy of 16 years old boy and 25 years lady. Great movie. I just want to put one comment about Japanese ladies. They refused to shake hands, then bowed. It never happened. If some Japanese ladies married Americans and live in the States, they definitely speak English and shake hands! LOL.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

All this user's reviews

9

DelayedReviewsJan 30, 2022

weird self-aware asian joke schtick aside (I was more confused than offended), funny af, slapstick, good tension building, filled with teenage angst and confusion, great chemistry and casting. Some snobs in the back of the theatre complainedweird self-aware asian joke schtick aside (I was more confused than offended), funny af, slapstick, good tension building, filled with teenage angst and confusion, great chemistry and casting. Some snobs in the back of the theatre complained about how long the movie was and that it could be cut down a lot, but I think it's great the way it is. It's a good time.… Expand

0 of 5 users found this helpful05

All this user's reviews

9

theredskyJan 10, 2022

Paul Thomas Anderson releases another banger of a film. The characters, performances, and writing really sell this as one of the best films of the year. The one big talking point with this film that I have noticed is the age differencePaul Thomas Anderson releases another banger of a film. The characters, performances, and writing really sell this as one of the best films of the year. The one big talking point with this film that I have noticed is the age difference between the main characters. Alana Haim’s character is 25 while Cooper Hoffman’s character is 15. If you’re looking from the outside then this can seem really weird and predatory but what I got out of this film is that that was the point. These two characters aren’t supposed to be together. They are both incredibly toxic human beings who shouldn’t get together at all because of who they are. It makes their character moments more interesting because it is obvious that they care about each other and want to be friends but Gary doesn’t want that. The relationships between the characters is fascinating to watch. Each character brings their own unique portrayal to the table even if they are only on screen for about 5-10 minutes. Bradley Cooper, Sean Penn, Benny Safdie, and Tom Waits being key examples. They have limited screen time but that screen time is dedicated to furthering the relationship and toxicity between the main characters. All of the performances here are excellent especially from Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman who haven’t acted almost at all before and give potentially career bests. The cinematography and music are once again top notch and Paul Thomas Anderson’s direction is one of the best of the year. I wouldn’t place it super high on my PTA ranking just because some of his others have left more of an impact on me. I would definitely recommend checking this film out when you can as it’s definitely gonna get nominated for a lot of stuff.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

All this user's reviews

7

UncleWillardMar 6, 2022

This movie had a great vibe, and despite the two leads being inexperienced actors, (or because of it), they do a great job carrying the movie. Kind of a sequel to Once Upon A Time in Hollywood; a love letter to LA with the optimism of theThis movie had a great vibe, and despite the two leads being inexperienced actors, (or because of it), they do a great job carrying the movie. Kind of a sequel to Once Upon A Time in Hollywood; a love letter to LA with the optimism of the 70s. Refreshing optimism.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

8

DawdlingPoetSep 10, 2022

This is a film that's very much nostalgia based - a coming of age tale with a good soundtrack and some good cinematography/camerawork - it features a fair bit of soft focus. It does have a bit of a seedy feel at times, due to the plot -This is a film that's very much nostalgia based - a coming of age tale with a good soundtrack and some good cinematography/camerawork - it features a fair bit of soft focus. It does have a bit of a seedy feel at times, due to the plot - there's not too much graphic content but it may make some feel a bit uncomfortable, due to the age difference between characters. The cast do a decent job with their performances and while its categorised as a drama, it has quite a laidback feel generally speaking. It's a bit like a summer holiday romance depicted on screen. I enjoyed it for the most part - the scenes with Sean Penn were quite good and yes, I'd recommend it.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

7

r96skJan 18, 2022

I can't say I enjoyed 'Licorice Pizza' as much as most, but this flick from Paul Thomas Anderson is a good one.

Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman are entertaining in the lead roles, with Haim particularly standing out - though Philip SeymourI can't say I enjoyed 'Licorice Pizza' as much as most, but this flick from Paul Thomas Anderson is a good one.

Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman are entertaining in the lead roles, with Haim particularly standing out - though Philip Seymour Hoffman's kid definitely improves as the film ticks by. There are some amusing roles for more well known faces, my favourite parts of this 2021 release are in fact with one of them - funny stuff with a certain someone (won't spoil who, just in case) who made his film debut in 'Wet Hot American Summer'! Some parts are amiss, mind; e.g. the strange Japanese wives bits.

I did find the dialogue a little pretentious I can't lie, mainly early on as we get to know the characters - once everything is fleshed out and set it's all shipshape, to be fair. The film gets a tad aimless near the end, I'd actually say the pacing is perfectly fine but it does feel as long as it is in terms of the run time - I felt every second of the 130 or so minutes.

All in all, I'd recommend it. Major film buffs will lap it up, evidently.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

8

hisaviFeb 20, 2022

PTA has never been better. Alana Haim gives the most revelatory performance of the year.

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

9

AJ_13Feb 25, 2022

Charismatic performances, hilarious sequences, a direction that exudes elegance and a wonderful soundtrack. One of those movies that you wouldn't mind watching again right after finishing it. Haim and Hoffman are great, but the supportingCharismatic performances, hilarious sequences, a direction that exudes elegance and a wonderful soundtrack. One of those movies that you wouldn't mind watching again right after finishing it. Haim and Hoffman are great, but the supporting actors are not far behind. All this coupled with an electric script and mesmerizing camera movements make Licorice Pizza an incredible experience. To mention something negative, I found the ending a bit abrupt.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

All this user's reviews

10

sproutpodFeb 18, 2022

Really enjoyed the complex and slightly disturbing relationship between the main characters. Love the subtle tone to the movie that respects the viewers' intelligence.

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

9

CLAYTAYLOR21Dec 31, 2021

Licorice Pizza is pure unadulterated fun. This all starts with the fantastic central characters. Gary Valentine and Alana Kane are two of the most fun characters of the year. They are both well-written and fleshed out while being brought toLicorice Pizza is pure unadulterated fun. This all starts with the fantastic central characters. Gary Valentine and Alana Kane are two of the most fun characters of the year. They are both well-written and fleshed out while being brought to life by great performances from Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman. Watching these two grow up together while having fun and wreaking havoc on Hollywood was an absolute joy. The only problem I have with this film is the discombobulated story. It's all over the place without any real focus. This was mostly fine with me because of how much fun I was having, but it probably would've made the conclusion a bit more satisfying had the plot been just a bit more structured. I still really enjoyed the movie and would definitely recommend anyone to check it out.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

All this user's reviews

7

DeviltherobotJan 10, 2022

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The movie is well acted and shot, but is bloated. This did not need to be 133 minutes. The main problem is the elephant in the room which is the relationship that happens between the 25 year old woman and 15 year old boy (kid). This was not really shown in trailers and was weird to see and took me out of the movie. PTA says the relationship is not sexual but the 25 year old shows her boobs, sensually hugs, and kisses the kid. The ending frankly turned an 8/10-8.5/10 movie into a 7/10. Her saying she loves him and kissing him? So weird. And it invalidates the best scene in the movie (the truck scene). Honestly if the genders were swapped, there wouldn't be this pretentious hand waiving about the age and how people "don't get it". People wouldn't defend it or romanticize it.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

10

michaelmurphyJan 8, 2022

Another wonderful feature from Paul Thomas Anderson.. ‘Licorice Pizza’ , although it barley has a plot (still somehow works) , shines through it’s well written script , wonderful script and unique characters.

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

All this user's reviews

8

MisterWilliamsFeb 5, 2022

Licorice Pizza disregards the conventional and expected plot "necessities" and instead focuses on telling a relatable story of growing up and coming to terms with your childhood being over. Where it lacks in "conflict resolution" andLicorice Pizza disregards the conventional and expected plot "necessities" and instead focuses on telling a relatable story of growing up and coming to terms with your childhood being over. Where it lacks in "conflict resolution" and "character development" it makes up for in relatability to one's own life and experience. Imagine the emotion behind being so much older than someone yet loving everything about them except for their age, stunning. Also, Alana's realization through her feigned pursuit of maturity by working "real" jobs and hanging out with "adults" is so pure and enjoyable to watch as she slowly understands that she can be happy with what makes HER happy, not those around her. A great emotional and pure film.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

All this user's reviews

7

MargiVSep 7, 2022

The category of the movie should be fantasy. Trying to understand where everything goes

Besides his dream. Yeah, I get it why it was nominated for best picture category, it had an too optimistic vibe, but it was very disorganized, nothingThe category of the movie should be fantasy. Trying to understand where everything goes

Besides his dream. Yeah, I get it why it was nominated for best picture category, it had an too optimistic vibe, but it was very disorganized, nothing went anywhere until the ending. The situations were too good to be true. I couldn't see those happen in this time, not to mention in their timeline. I liked Seymour Jr acting, I hope he will have a good career, he started well. As in for the other nominations, not deserved. It deserved for the music department, the songs were excellent, but that's it.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

9

CarlElmoreNov 24, 2022

Another really great slice of life film with great performances, direction and cinematography.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

7

jamessMay 2, 2022

Take Once Upon A Time In Hollywood and Rushmore and you essentially have Licorice Pizza. Paul Thomas Anderson sets the film in the early seventies in the valley, where the siren call of Hollywood beckons, but there's a reason there's theTake Once Upon A Time In Hollywood and Rushmore and you essentially have Licorice Pizza. Paul Thomas Anderson sets the film in the early seventies in the valley, where the siren call of Hollywood beckons, but there's a reason there's the Hollywood hills, and being in the valley. Cooper Hoffman (son of the late great Phillip Seymour) portrays Gary, a fifteen year old child actor, who is a forty year old trapped in a teen's body. As they would say in the day, the kid's got moxie. He's constantly hustling, looking for the next venture with his band of underage cronies (ala Rushmore). Alana Haim is the mid twenties photographer's assistant Gary meets at school. He's smitten. She's amused by this hyper confident kid, but states right out their age difference and even says a relationship would be illegal. In fact throughout the film they always deny any relationship, despite their growing affection for one another. The film does meander along, but it does so amicably. They meet Jon Peters, a bit unhinged Bradley Cooper, as the hairdresser/boyfriend of Barbra Streisand, who would become a major producer, proving that sometimes it's not what you know but who you know. Alana meets up with middle aged star Jack Holden (Sean Penn), who literally dumps her off the back of a motorcycle while attempting a drunken stunt. Haim and Hoffman have such a natural charm and presence that it's hard to believe they haven't acted for years before this. Licorice Pizza may not be two great tastes that taste great together, but it's a mighty fine slice.… Expand