Boogie Nights
Assuming that you're a college student or in the same age bracket as one, I bet you already know something about pornography. If you're saying "no," stop talking to your computer! Anyway, pornography is known for it low-quality picture, horrible acting, and lack of character development. In contrast, Boogie Nights, a film about the adult film industry, delivers sharp cinematography and sympathetic characters, portrayed by an excellent ensemble cast.
Set in California between 1977-83, Boogie Nights tells the story of a group of pornographers adjusting to the changing times. "Marky" Mark Wahlberg stars as Eddie Adams, a young man who is relatively innocent initially. One day, his mom throws him out of the house after a fight. Having already met film director Jack Horner (Burt Reynolds) at the nightclub where Eddie works nights, the lead character goes to Jack's house. Needing to belong, Eddie begins working as a porn star and changes his name to Dirk Diggler. As far as credentials for this job go, Dirk puts a foot-long hot dog to shame. Throughout the film, Dirk loses his innocence and becomes addicted to narcotics.
The supporting characters add even more depth to Boogie Nights. Amber Waves (Julianne Moore), distraught over the loss of custody of her child, acts as a mother figure to the younger actors. Reed Rothchild (John C. Reilly) is an amateur magician when he's not acting in Jack's films. Jack Horner is resistant to the new technology -- as a filmmaker, he defies videotape as film's replacement. Bill (William H. Macy) is fed up with his wife's open infidelity. There are several more fascinating characters, and you'll see what they're all about when you watch this movie.
Director/screenwriter Paul Thomas Anderson's second feature film is never boring, not even for a minute, during its 2.5-hour running time. The distinct visual feel of the film, brilliant screenwriting, and crafty dialogue conspire to keep your attention from wandering elsewhere. Several times in the film, Anderson uses a long shot; the camera follows a character for a couple of minutes as he or she walks around the set. Anderson also uses long shots in Magnolia (his incredible follow-up to Boogie Nights).
Even though Boogie Nights reflects the porn industry, it's a tasteful film. Nudity and sex scenes are never out-of-character or excessive. The film maintains a serious tone, but some of the lines and scenes still crack me up after 10 viewings. For example, there's Dirk (as detective Brock Landers) interrogating a witness: "I'm going to ask you once more, and I'm going to ask nicely, where the fuck is Ringo, you bitch!" Dirk and Reed also try to become rock stars. However, their songwriting skills and singing voices are hilariously horrible.
Paul Thomas Anderson has proven his skills as a director and screenwriter after only three feature films. Boogie Nights is a lot of fun. Once you see it, you can't wait to see it again. With characters and scenes you can't forget, Boogie Nights is a film that you'll want to remember.
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Some people might not want to drink after seeing the drug-abuse scenes. Otherwise, this is a great movie to watch with your friends Jack Daniels and Samuel Adams.
If you're watching Boogie Nights with a conservative lady, the only action you'll see is in the movie.
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