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Slacker (1990) poster

Slacker

dir. Richard Linklater · 1990

Feature
Cultural Dislocation
Mood
Contemplative / Whimsical
Look
naturalistic, with a documentary-like feel capturing the vibrancy of Austin
Structure
vignette-style, interconnected character studies
Plot

Austin, Texas, is an Eden for the young and unambitious, from the enthusiastically eccentric to the dangerously apathetic. Here, the nobly lazy can eschew responsibility in favor of nursing their esoteric obsessions. The locals include a backseat philosopher who passionately expounds on his dream theories to a seemingly comatose cabbie, a young woman who tries to hawk Madonna's Pap test to anyone who will listen and a kindly old anarchist looking for recruits.

Why watch

"Slacker" is a whimsical exploration of aimlessness and eccentricity, capturing the essence of youth in a vibrant Austin. Through a series of interconnected vignettes, it invites viewers to ponder the beauty of mundane conversations and the philosophical musings of its quirky characters.

Talking points
  • the nature of ambition and apathy
  • the role of place in identity
  • the impact of youth culture on society
  • the significance of dialogue in storytelling
Cultural context
1990s counterculture in Austinthe rise of independent cinemathe Mumblecore movement's roots

Where this shelves

every shelf · back to the store