We’re used to Paul Thomas Anderson keeping us waiting. The legendary 5-time Oscar nominee left five years between Punch Drunk Love (2002) and There Will Be Blood (2007), and another five before The Master (2012) hit our screens: the latest films released by Anderson, despite the wait, always received huge praise. So we’re eternally grateful that his latest offering, Inherent Vice is scheduled for release, according to the latest cinema listings, on the 30th of January – so as the month draws to a close head to a cinema in London for a new film reviews are raving about.
Of all the films London will be seeing this month, this is surely one of the most anticipated. Inherent Vice, which is the first ever adaptation of a Thomas Pynchon novel, boasts an all-star cast including Reese Witherspoon (who's got not shortage of movies coming out this month, with the Wild UK release date set for the 16th of January). Joaquin Phoenix, Josh Brolin, Benicio Del Toro, Owen Wilson and Jena Malone also make an appearance, as well as a score composed by the prolific Jonny Greenwood (There Will Be Blood, Romeo + Juliet) and recorded with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London. Film festivals gave it a big thumbs up, and with such an exciting cast, this looks to be one of the best new films out at cinemas across the capital.
Set in ‘70s Southern California, the magical realist flick follows dope-smoking private investigator, Larry “Doc” Sportello, played by Joaquin Phoenix (The Master, Her, Walk the Line), who’s investigating the disappearance of his ex-girlfriend’s wealthy boyfriend in Los Angeles. Phoenix has already been lauded for his role, as has newcomer Katherine Waterson (who can currently be seen alongside Jesse Eisenberg in Night Moves) for her portrayal of Shasta Fay, Sportello’s surfer-girl ex. Josh Brolin (No Country For Old Men, Milk, Labor Day) also takes a star turn as hippie-hating LAPD detective Christian “Bigfoot” Bjornson.
Speaking about PTA’s collaborative directing style, Waterston recently described how “he doesn’t walk onto set with a clear goal. That can be…surprising. It didn’t feel chaotic; it felt thrilling. The set felt really vital. Like you are going into a question together.” According to Brolin, who has pronounced the process as ‘great’ and ‘absolute fucking chaos,’ there was also a heavy emphasis on eating pancakes. ‘Many, many pancakes.’ Oh, and a central role from a piece of fruit; ‘it’s frozen,’ he added ‘And it’s my friend.’
We can’t wait.
Cinemas showing Inherent Vice in London:
South: Where to see Inherent Vice in South London: The Ritzy
Brixton's historic Ritzy is known for its relaxed atmosphere and eclectic programme of art-house films, documentaries and Hollywood blockbusters. The range of craft beers on offer make The Ritzy a cut above the rest.
Click here for other suggestions of what’s on at the Ritzy this weekend.
North: Where to see Inherent Vice in North London: Screen on the Green, Islington
This historic cinema is a favourite amongst Islingtonites. With its ionic, red neon facade, and renowned for its great hospitality the Screen on the Green is a must-visit for discerning cinephiles.
Click here for other suggestions of what’s on at the Screen on the Green, Islington this weekend
East: Where to see Inherent Vice in East London: The Barbican
The Barbican’s brutalist architecture may divide opinion, but its cinema – which often hosts film festivals and plays old classics – is definitely worth a visit. There is also a generous range of discounts for 16-25s: click here to find out more.
Click here for other suggestions of what’s on at the The Barbican this weekend.
West: Where to see Inherent Vice in West London: The Lounge, Whiteleys
The Lounge, Whiteleys is an Odeon like no other: under-18s are banned and and customers treated to a luxury cinema experience. Should you need a top-up, the chairs are equipped with buttons to call waiting staff during the film. Luxury indeed.
Click here for other suggestions of what’s on at the Lounge, Whiteleys this weekend.
If none of our suggestions take your fancy, check out the complete listings for cinemas showing Inherent Vice in London: Inherent Vice film times, London
What | Inherent Vice |
Where | Various Locations | MAP |
Nearest tube | Camden Town (underground) |
When |
30 Jan 15 – 01 Apr 15, 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
Price | £0 |
Website | Click here to go to Inherent Vice's IMDB page |