Licorice Pizza (2021)

Review Team

4/5

Licorice Pizza, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, is a poignant exploration of first love set in the vibrant backdrop of 1970s San Fernando Valley. The film follows Alana Kane and Gary Valentine as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence with a refreshing blend of humour and heart. Anderson's ... Show more >> Licorice Pizza, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, is a poignant exploration of first love set in the vibrant backdrop of 1970s San Fernando Valley. The film follows Alana Kane and Gary Valentine as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence with a refreshing blend of humour and heart. Anderson's direction is both assured and whimsical, capturing the essence of youth with a keen eye for detail. The performances by Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman are standout, bringing authenticity and charm to their characters. The narrative unfolds in a series of vignettes that feel both nostalgic and relatable, though some may find the meandering plot lacking in traditional structure. Overall, Licorice Pizza is a beautifully crafted film that resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet nature of young love. Show less

Editor Team

3.5/5

Licorice Pizza is like a sweet, nostalgic trip down memory lane, but it does come with its share of bumps. Paul Thomas Anderson paints a vivid picture of the 1970s, immersing us in the lives of Alana and Gary as they flit through their teenage years. The chemistry between Haim and Hoffman is palpabl ... Show more >> Licorice Pizza is like a sweet, nostalgic trip down memory lane, but it does come with its share of bumps. Paul Thomas Anderson paints a vivid picture of the 1970s, immersing us in the lives of Alana and Gary as they flit through their teenage years. The chemistry between Haim and Hoffman is palpable, making their adventures feel genuine and relatable. However, the film’s loose narrative might leave some viewers craving a tighter storyline. The charm of the characters and the whimsical moments shine through, but at times, it feels like we’re just along for the ride without a clear destination. If you enjoy character-driven stories that capture the essence of youth, Licorice Pizza is worth a watch, though it may not appeal to everyone. Show less