Boogie Nights

After having seen two of his, what sticks out to me most about PTA's movies is the respect and empathy he has for his in this case quite quirky cast of characters. The quirkyness doesn't detract from the humanity that's felt at their core, moreover the rollerblades and cowboy outfits simultaneously act as a mask and as a catalyst for identity. Boogie Nights explores a very specific culture at a specific place and time. It's interesting how this community adapts to the rejections and negative stigmas from the outside world. The director's villa evolves from a place of party, sex and drugs to a haven of family and belonging. This is reflected in the mise-en-scène through the interior design in the excellent final act. Where we mostly saw the living room and pool area early on, the kitchen area many of the later dialogues take place in reflects much more closely the glimpses we see of Eddie's childhood home. Boogie Nights is a movie so good it's hard to pick out a favorite moment because every other scene would unquestionably be the best moment in any other movie.