Licorice Pizza Review: PTA Triumphs in this Groovy 70s Love Story
A lionhearted 15-year-old actor falls hard for a feisty yet aimless young woman of 25 in Paul Thomas Anderson’s enchanting new movie, “Licorice Pizza.” Set against the dreamy backdrop of summer 1973 in Encino, CA, the audience witnesses two love stories. One between Gary Valentine and Alana Kane and the other between Anderson and the San Fernando Valley of the 70s.
The movie’s romance begins like a cupid's arrow. When they meet in line for school photos, Gary (Cooper Hoffman) is instantly smitten by Alana (Alana Haim). The fact that Gary is a student and Alana is an adult working at the photo company doesn’t stop Gary from asking her to dinner that night and doesn't stop Alana from saying yes. They are both surprised that the aggrandizing of his child-acting resume worked in his favor. Their dinner “date” leads to a friendship full of sexual and emotional tension.
It’s hard not to root for the two, despite their age gap. Anderson does an impressive job of developing the characters of Gary and Alana. No lines are crossed, and the intentions are innocent. While Anderson has a track record of releasing provocative films like “Boogie Nights” and “The Master,” nothing is disturbing about the love these two characters experience.
This film is a real slice of life. Anderson captures California, the 70s, and the spirit of youth with grace, humor, and humanity. From the boogie-worthy soundtrack, prodigious performances, and honeyed dialogue, “Licorice Pizza” is the coming-of-age story that reminds you of the purity of first love.
