Richard Linklater

Slacker is one of the most influential independent films of all time. It’s influenced so many indie filmmakers and was instrumental in getting Kevin Smith “off his fat lazy ass” to make his low-budget debut Clerks. Slacker was also a film that laid down the groundwork for non-linear storytelling. Along with it’s eccentric characters, Slacker’s narrative flipped about like a fish out of water. The story, if you can call it that, is a fascinating insight into what it was like to be a “slacker” in the 90’s.

Dazed and Confused is Linklater’s second feature film and some argue his finest work to date. The beauty of this film is it’s longevity. It will no doubt stand the test of time and forever be relevant. Linklater’s ability as a storyteller is on display for all to see. He has an eye for detail, blending the concerns and apprehension of many teenagers, consummately avoiding any cliches.

Before Sunrise ends with Jessie and Celine making a promise to reunite a year later. Nine years pass and the two meet in a bookstore. The film is a lot more demanding of it’s audience than its precursor. Before Sunset is a fine example of Linklater spreading his wings as a filmmaker narratively.

Without a doubt Waking Life is Linklater’s most stimulating film visually. Waking Life is a document on the meaning of life and dreams. With the use of innovative software and the help of artists from Austin, Texas, Linklater painted a unique view of the world with glorious results.

Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy star as two young travelers who meet on a train and decide to share an adventure with each other. Before Sunset illustrates perfectly how Linklater manages to tell a deep and strongly felt romantic story in a 24-hour time frame and never seems to be restrained by these restrictions he has put on himself in many of his films.

Jack Black was the ideal fit for the role of substitute music teacher Dewey Finn in The School of Rock. An excellent script and pitch perfect performances from a group of thirteen-year-old’s make this blend of comedy and rock ‘n’ roll work in perfect harmony.

The Newton Boys was Linklater’s first step into the world of big budget filmmaking. Some critics viewed it as a slight failure, whilst some audiences claim it be a sleeper in Linklater’s filmography. What makes The Newton Boys work is it’s apparent chemistry between it’s lead characters, although they play brothers who are somewhat dysfunctional.

Tape is unique simply for it’s setting. Entirely based in a motel room, the confined space could potentially lead to tricky situations narratively and for the production crew. With a director like Linklater, his imagination opens up the space making Tape an imaginative and stimulating watch.

An acclaimed cast and outlandish characters make A Scanner Darkly a great psychedelic trip. Keanu Reeves plays an undercover police officer who becomes addicted to a drug that splits your brain in two. Robert Downey Jr. and Woody Harrelson support Reeves faultlessly and the rotoscoped animation adds to the offbeat bizarreness of this film.

Fast Food Nation is vehicle Linklater used to help a message across about the fast food industry. A risky film tackling such a powerful industry and at times in the film you feel like you are being lectured. But what Fast Food Nation proves is Linklater is a filmmaker that likes to test himself and doesn’t shy away from putting his argument across.