21 Years: Richard Linklater – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

21 Years: Richard Linklater

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

movie2014

45%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

A film-nerd documentary about a film-nerd director, for film nerds who really, really like Richard Linklater.

40%

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21 Years: Richard Linklater

movie

NR, 2014

45%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

A film-nerd documentary about a film-nerd director, for film nerds who really, really like Richard Linklater.

40%

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Screenwise Verdict

Let's be honest: this is a documentary made for people who subscribe to Criterion Channel and have strong opinions about the French New Wave. The mediocre reviews (40% critics, 56% audience) tell you what you need to know - even people who WANT to like a Richard Linklater retrospective found this one lacking.

If you have a high schooler seriously exploring film as a college major or career path, this could offer some genuine insight into the life of an independent filmmaker. For literally everyone else? Hard pass. This isn't a fun, accessible doc like Jiro Dreams of Sushi - it's an insider's look at an insider's career.

The WISE score is low not because it's problematic, but because it's just not watchable for general audiences. Available on Kanopy (free with library card) if you're curious, but don't say I didn't warn you.

Age Fit

This is for film students, aspiring filmmakers, and serious cinema enthusiasts ages 16+. Not remotely appropriate or interesting for younger viewers - even most adults would find this dry.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Documentary format focused on creative work and filmmaking process. Testimonies from collaborators and friends suggest positive professional relationships. No indication of inappropriate content, though lack of content rating creates some uncertainty.

Imaginative

Explores the creative process of an innovative filmmaker known for experimental storytelling (Boyhood filmed over 12 years, Before trilogy). Examines artistic motivations and signature style, which could inspire creative thinking about filmmaking and storytelling.

Safe

Documentary format about filmmaking is inherently low-risk. No content rating available but subject matter (film analysis and career retrospective) suggests minimal concerning content. May include clips from Linklater's films which vary in rating, but documentary context keeps it grounded.

Enriching

Offers insight into filmmaking craft and creative career development. However, mixed critical reception (40% RT critics, 51 Metacritic) suggests execution may be lacking. Best suited for those already interested in film studies or Linklater's work specifically. Limited broader appeal or life lessons beyond niche film appreciation.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

If your teen is genuinely interested in filmmaking as a career or craft, this offers real insight into a working director's process
Linklater's experimental approach (filming Boyhood over 12 years) is legitimately fascinating for aspiring creatives
Safe, talking-heads format means no surprise content concerns
Could spark interest in unconventional career paths and long-term creative projects

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What to Watch For

This is genuinely boring for 99% of viewers - it's a documentary about making documentaries and indie films
40% on Rotten Tomatoes means even film critics found it underwhelming
Zero kid appeal unless you have a budding Sundance filmmaker on your hands
May include clips from Linklater's R-rated films (Dazed and Confused, Before Sunrise trilogy)

Conversation Starters

"What do you think it takes to stick with a creative project for 21 years?"
"Have you ever thought about what goes into making a movie beyond just the actors?"
"Linklater filmed Boyhood with the same actors over 12 years - what kind of project would you want to work on for that long?"

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