Paul Thomas Anderson is a skilled filmmaker. His movies are thoughtfully written, methodically paced, and constructed with detail. Licorice Pizza falls in line with Anderson's established work because it possesses all these qualities. Undoubtedly, the film's most noticeable trait is its pronounced vision. Since the romanticized visuals, relaxed editing, and nostalgic writing harmonize so well, credit must be given to Anderson for weaving a dream. Licorice Pizza feels like a trip down memory lane, and is an aesthetic experience as much as it is a concrete narrative. For these reasons, the film is certainly more than the sum of its parts.
Meanwhile, the acting leads of Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman keep Licorice Pizza rooted in relatability. The film stretches its artistic legs but remains focused on its study of maturation. Haim is caught between worlds: too experienced to fit in with the teens and too naive to fit in with grown adults. Simultaneously, Cooper has outgrown his childhood and longs for more than his adolescence provides. Together, these two depict various flavors of self-discovery as they navigate their transitioning places in the world. Anchored by this vulnerability and decorated by Anderson's artistry, Licorice Pizza lands as a stunning encounter.
Writing: 9/10
Direction: 10/10
Cinematography: 9/10
Acting: 9/10
Editing: 9/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 10/10
Production Design: 9/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 8.8/10
Can't wait to see it.