Introduction

Inherent Vice, released in 2014, is a film adaptation of Thomas Pynchon’s 2009 novel of the same name. Directed by auteur Paul Thomas Anderson, the movie blends elements of neo-noir, psychedelic comedy, and crime mystery into a singular, dreamlike experience. Starring Joaquin Phoenix as the laid-back private investigator Larry “Doc” Sportello, Inherent Vice takes audiences on a surreal journey through the countercultural haze of 1970s Los Angeles.

Plot Summary

Set in the fictional seaside town of Gordita Beach in 1970, Inherent Vice follows Doc Sportello as he investigates the mysterious disappearance of his ex-girlfriend, Shasta Fay Hepworth (played by Katherine Waterston). Shasta claims that her current lover, real estate mogul Mickey Wolfmann, is being conspired against by his wife and her lover.

As Doc follows the case, he is drawn into an increasingly convoluted web of conspiracies involving shady government operations, mysterious cult-like organizations, ex-cops, and the infamous “Golden Fang,” a possible cartel and dental empire rolled into one.

This hallucinogenic detective story blurs the lines between reality and paranoia, mirroring the stoner paranoia of its protagonist.

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.