Synopsis
Waking Life is about a young man in a persistent lucid dream-like state. The film follows its protagonist as he initially observes and later participates in philosophical discussions that weave together issues like reality, free will, our relationships with others, and the meaning of life.
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Cast
- Ethan HawkeJesse
- Julie DelpyCeline
- Wiley WigginsMain Character
- Bill WiseBoat Car Guy
- Alex JonesMan in Car with P.A.
- Steven SoderberghInterviewed on Television
- Ken WebsterBartender
- Charles GunningAngry Man in Jail
- Lorelei LinklaterYoung Girl Playing Paper Game
- Trevor Jack BrooksYoung Boy Playing Paper Game
Recommendations
- 100
Chicago Tribune
The film is truly special, truly different -- a wondrous talky roundelay about and for people who love life. - 100
Entertainment Weekly
An amazing thing -- a work of cinematic art in which form and structure pursues the logic-defying (parallel) subjects of dreaming and moviegoing. - 100
The New Yorker
For the battered American independent cinema, Linklater's movie is the highest form of life seen in the last couple of years. [12 Nov 2001, p. 138] - 100
New York Magazine (Vulture)
An astounding, one-of-a-kind movie. - 90
The New York Times
So verbally dexterous and visually innovative that you can't absorb it unless you have all your wits about you. And even then, you may want to see it again to enjoy its subtle humor and warm humanity. - 90
Slate
One of the most inspired cases of the medium embodying the message ever captured on celluloid. - 90
Rolling Stone
That Linklater pulls off the innovative feat with hypnotic assurance is nothing short of amazing. - 75
New York Post
A breakthrough animated film -- a trippy cross between "Yellow Submarine" and "My Dinner With Andre" that will leave some audience members struggling to stay awake and others reaching for a toke.
