The film tells a story of a divorced couple trying to raise their young son. The story follows the boy for twelve years, from first grade at age 6 through 12th grade at age 17-18, and examines his relationship with his parents as he grows.
Direction
Linklater's insane 12-year gamble actually paid off.
Acting
Patricia Arquette's Oscar was EARNED.
Writing
Dialogue that actually sounds like humans talking.
Director
Richard Linklater
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Linklater cast his own daughter Lorelei as Mason's sister; she tried to quit at age 9 and asked him to kill off her character.
The film's release sparked debates about whether its 'ordinary' white male protagonist deserved such epic treatment.
US
