33 Essential Films by Richard Linklater

This dark comedy tells the story of Rupert Pupkin, an ambitious comedian determined to achieve stardom. He becomes fixated on a successful talk-show host who craves a quiet life. Driven by his obsession, Rupert's relentless pursuit of his hero leads…

Captain Jean-Luc Picard leads his crew aboard the newly commissioned USS Enterprise NCC-1701D on a journey to explore new and unknown parts of space. They discover new worlds and alien civilizations, using their skills to overcome challenges, build alliances, and…

In Berlin, two angels, Damiel and Cassiel, observe humanity, offering silent comfort without direct involvement. Damiel, however, develops a strong connection with Marion, a lonely trapeze artist, and begins to question his purpose, longing for a taste of mortal life.…

In a city riddled with corruption and distrust, a small-time criminal and the former spouse of a drug dealer form an unexpected alliance. Driven by a shared desire for love, money, and escape, they navigate a dangerous world filled with…

A driven research scientist undertakes a remarkable journey to understand consciousness. He uses methods like sensory deprivation and substances from Native American shamans to explore altered states of mind. This leads him to discover significant insights about memory, time, and…

In a quiet suburb of Paris, two women with different lives unexpectedly become friends. Blanche is a dedicated office worker, and Léa is a vibrant student balancing school and love. Their lives become connected as Léa contemplates ending her relationship…

This film explores the challenging life of a Broadway playwright as his personal and professional lives become intertwined. Facing pressure to finish a show before its opening night, he also deals with a failing marriage and the difficulties of being…

Sabine sets out to leave her past relationships behind and find a husband, with her close friend Clarisse's help. Clarisse introduces her to Edmond, a lawyer working in occupied Paris. Despite Clarisse's encouragement, Sabine struggles to win Edmond over, who…

Zack Mayo, a young man determined to become a skilled naval pilot, begins a demanding 13-week training program. He clashes with Emil Foley, a strict drill sergeant who dislikes Zack's reserved nature, though he sees potential beneath the surface. Meanwhile,…

Two taxi drivers search San Francisco's Chinatown for a strange person who vanished with their $4,000. Their search becomes a lighthearted, though ordinary, adventure that reveals the challenges faced by Chinese-Americans trying to fit into modern America.

The film explores the connected lives of a TV director, his ex-lover, and an escort. It examines the complex relationship between their intimate and professional lives, showing their vulnerabilities and strengths. As the story unfolds, each character struggles with what…

Fanny and Alexander enjoy a happy childhood with their loving parents, who run a theatre company. Their world changes suddenly when their father dies. Suddenly under the care of their mother Emilie, they face a stricter life after she marries…

This biographical drama follows the eventful life of journalist John Reed, who was deeply involved in both his career and the Russian socialist revolution. The film explores Reed's tireless efforts to report the major events of early 20th-century Europe, events…

Julian works as a companion for wealthy older women in Los Angeles. One of his clients is Michelle, the wife of a local politician. Their relationship becomes personal, not financial. But when a client is murdered, Detective Sunday begins investigating…

A seasoned dog trainer takes on an extraordinary challenge: rehabilitating a dog specifically bred and conditioned to attack Black people. The film explores prejudice, redemption, and the connection between humans and animals as the trainer works to heal the dog…

Set in post-war Germany, the film follows the tragic story of film star Veronika Voss as she battles addiction under the control of Dr. Marianne Katz. The once-glamorous actress spirals into drug dependency, but a chance meeting with sports writer…

David Howard, a driven Los Angeles professional, experiences a career disappointment that leads him and his wife Linda to reconsider their values. Seeking an escape from their possessions-focused life, they sell everything and set off on a cross-country adventure in…

In a peaceful countryside, an eccentric inventor gathers his unusual family for a summer weekend at their impressive, slightly eerie home. His wife, her adventurous cousin, and a doctor with his young fiancée join the gathering, leading to a series…

An American oil company dispatches an agent to Scotland with the task of acquiring an entire village for a planned refinery. However, the acquisition process encounters unforeseen complications.

Growing up with a father who served time and a mother struggling with addiction, a young girl feels like an outsider. She seeks solace in an unusual blend of Elvis Presley and punk rock music.

This film explores the lives of several people navigating loneliness and longing in the city at night. A nightclub owner struggles with his business and complicated feelings for a regular customer. A relationship counselor on the radio faces their own…

In a world dominated by street gangs, Rusty James struggles to define himself. He's caught between trying to live up to his older brother's legendary reputation and forging his own identity. Growing up in this violent environment, he misses the…

Richard's ordinary life changes when he witnesses a man disposing of a body in an alley. Determined to bring the perpetrator to justice, Richard teams up with his friend Alex Cutter. They investigate, uncovering a dangerous network of secrets. As…

Julie lives a happy life in a peaceful, beautiful suburb with a supportive community. Her world changes when she meets Randy, a rebellious city punk who makes her question what she thinks about love. They come from very different worlds…

This intimate film follows a solitary woman living in Paris as she takes an extended summer break from her everyday life. Isolated, she confronts her inner struggles and anxieties. The film subtly reveals her emotional journey amidst the beauty of…

This is the story of Melvin Dummar, a man who consistently overcame hardship with unwavering hope. Struggling financially, his life changed dramatically when he claimed to have inherited the fortune of the reclusive Howard Hughes. The film examines Dummar's complex…

Paul Snider, a self-proclaimed ladies' man and con artist, sees an opportunity when he meets Dorothy Stratten working at a Dairy Queen. He decides to guide Dorothy into becoming a Playboy Playmate, enjoying the fame and success they achieve together.…

A determined Secret Service agent pursues a ruthless counterfeiter who murdered his colleague. He must navigate danger, corruption, and deception while trying to bring the criminal mastermind to justice, risking his life and the integrity of his agency. As he…

A small-time promoter with big dreams aims to turn a little-known women's wrestling team into champions. He struggles to take the athletes from local shows to national recognition, facing challenges like skeptical sponsors, competing teams, and disagreements within his own…

In late 1960s New Jersey, this coming-of-age story follows Jill, a typical high school student dealing with everyday teenage issues. Her life changes when Sheik, a charming new student from another part of town, joins her school. Despite their different…

Seven college friends reunite for a weekend at a peaceful summer house in New Hampshire. As they reminisce, they recall a defining moment from their youth: being arrested on their way to a protest in Washington, D.C., an event that…