Inherent Vice is a 2014 neo-noir stoner comedy directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, adapted from Thomas Pynchon’s 2009 novel. Set in 1970 Los Angeles, the film follows Larry “Doc” Sportello (Joaquin Phoenix), a laid-back, marijuana-loving private investigator. Doc’s ex-girlfriend, Shasta Fay Hepworth (Katherine Waterston), reappears, requesting his help in preventing a plot against her current boyfriend, wealthy real estate developer Mickey Wolfmann. When both Shasta and Mickey vanish, Doc embarks on a convoluted journey through the city’s underbelly, encountering a cast of eccentric characters.
As Doc delves deeper, he uncovers connections to a mysterious organization known as the Golden Fang, which may be involved in various illicit activities, including drug trafficking and tax evasion. The investigation leads him through a labyrinth of surfers, hustlers, and corrupt officials, reflecting the paranoia and disillusionment of the era. Throughout the film, Doc’s interactions with LAPD detective Christian “Bigfoot” Bjornsen (Josh Brolin) add tension and dark humor to the narrative.
The film’s atmosphere is enriched by its period-accurate production design and a soundtrack featuring era-specific music, including compositions by Jonny Greenwood. Joanna Newsom serves as the film’s narrator, Sortilège, providing poetic commentary that adds to the film’s dreamlike quality.
Inherent Vice received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its performances and faithful adaptation of Pynchon’s complex novel. However, some viewers found the plot challenging to follow due to its intricate and meandering structure. The film holds a 73% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an 81 out of 100 on Metacritic, indicating universal acclaim. It was nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Costume Design.
Overall, Inherent Vice stands as a unique cinematic experience that captures the essence of a bygone era, blending humor, mystery, and social commentary into a singular narrative.
