Licorice Pizza is writer/director Paul Thomas Anderson’s (Magnolia) ode to his teen years and features winning performances by two newcomers, Alana Haim and Cooper Hoffman (Philip Seymour Hoffman’s son).
It’s the early 1970s, and high schooler Gary (Hoffman) is an aspiring actor who takes an immediate interest in an older woman, Alana (Haim) who in turn is intrigued by this teen. Although she makes clear that they are not boyfriend/girlfriend, there are definite vibes between the two. Gary is the eternal optimist and hustler who can spot a money making opportunity and promotes get rich schemes including a new sensation, waterbeds, and later, pinball machines. In contrast, Alana has self-doubts and poor self-esteem; she wants to find her calling and leave her overbearing parents. When the gas shortage crisis strikes the nation, Gary focuses on a new business venture while Alana volunteers for a charismatic political candidate. Truths emerge, and though their relationship is complicated, Gary and Alana come to an important realization.
Far from glamorous actors, Haim and Hoffman carry the entire film with their awkward chemistry while Sean Penn as a William Holden type actor and Bradley Cooper as a manic Jon Peters contribute amusing appearances. There are instances of political incorrectness of the time, and the age difference of the two leads (not dissimilar from Woody Allen’s Manhattan, featuring a minor in love with an older adult), might raise an eye or two. 
As usual, Anderson (Boogie Nights) vividly depicts the period with contemporary music and fashion of the times, and his narrative plays this slice of life like stream of consciousness as it sensitively captures the insecurities and excitement of young love while never losing focus on his two lead characters. They are worth knowing.
***1/2 of ****stars (add ½* for Anderson fans)
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