Review of Boogie Nights (1997) by Thomas B — 29 Jan 2015

****.

Paul Thomas Anderson is a director I have a lot of respect for. I've kind of watched his career backwards, starting from Inherent Vice and, whilst I haven't quite seen all his work, I have to say his earlier stuff appeals to me more. Whilst 'Magnolia' is undoubtedly his masterpiece; one which I doubt he'll ever beat, movies like 'Boogie Nights' show him in his unrefined, yet most daring stage. Although this movie is way too long, and feels rather messy in its construction, it also demonstrates some of Anderson's most experimental work. The fluid camera movements, the excellent soundtrack, all backed up with some fantastic performances meant this was one hell of an entertaining ride. You feel the length (no pun intended), and it sometimes feels a little meandering in its plotting, but at the same time it manages to sweep you up into the chaos of this world. This is an endlessly enjoyable ride, and it's all the more fascinating when you compare this Anderson to the Anderson of today.