Ember's analysis
- Pacing
- Measured
- Intensity
- Moderate
- Complexity
- Layered
- Violence
- None
- intimate
- smoky
- sensual
- late night viewing
- indie film night
What critics said
Critics found the film flawed but broadly favorable, with particular praise for Frances McDormand's vivid performance as Jane.
What sets it apart
May contain story progression spoilers
Sam and Alex move into Jane's Laurel Canyon house, where recording sessions, lovers, partying, and family tensions converge.
Alex's genomics dissertation and Sam's psychiatric residency are both tested by the household's music-driven lifestyle and romantic temptations.
Jane produces an unfinished record with Ian and the band while drugs, drinking, rehearsals, and sexual freedom shape the household.
Alex becomes drawn into Jane's world while Sam is drawn toward Sara, creating mirrored romantic and psychological disruptions.
Films like Laurel Canyon, and why
The Kids Are All Right
shared intimate relationship drama, sexual ambiguity, and emotionally volatile ensemble dynamics
Boogie Nights
shared Los Angeles setting, bohemian domestic disruption, and complicated romantic entanglements
Closer
shared adult relationship uncertainty, infidelity, and psychologically observant indie drama
High Fidelity
shared music-world atmosphere, romantic tension, and drifting adult characters
Movie Details
- Director
- Lisa Cholodenko
- Release Date
- 2003-03-07
- Runtime
- 103 min
- Rating
- 6.0 / 10 (230)
Cast
- Frances McDormand
- Christian Bale
- Kate Beckinsale
- Natascha McElhone
- Alessandro Nivola
- Lou Barlow
- Russell Pollard
- Imaad Wasif
- Mickey Petralia
- Melissa De Sousa
Where to watch in United States
- Streaming
- Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads, Howdy Amazon Channel
- Rent
- Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fandango At Home
- Buy
- Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fandango At Home
Streaming options come from TMDB and change over time.
Common questions
- What is Laurel Canyon about?
- A newly engaged couple's move into a bohemian Los Angeles household exposes desires and loyalties neither partner expected to confront.
- What is Laurel Canyon like to watch?
- Ember's analysis rates the pacing of Laurel Canyon as measured, its intensity as moderate and its storytelling as layered.
- Is Laurel Canyon violent?
- No — Ember's analysis finds no violence in Laurel Canyon.
- What did critics think of Laurel Canyon?
- Critics found the film flawed but broadly favorable, with particular praise for Frances McDormand's vivid performance as Jane.
- Which films are like Laurel Canyon?
- Films with a similar feel include The Kids Are All Right, Boogie Nights, Closer, and High Fidelity.
- How long is Laurel Canyon?
- Laurel Canyon runs 103 minutes.
- Where can I watch Laurel Canyon?
- In United States, Laurel Canyon streams on Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads, Howdy Amazon Channel.
