---
title: "Inherent Vice"
year: 2014
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/inherent-vice-2014"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 171274
imdb_id: null
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 149
community_rating: 6.5
vote_count: 0
content_rating: "R"
---

# Inherent Vice (2014) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/inherent-vice-2014

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

Inherent Vice is a 2014 film directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. Set in Los Angeles at the turn of the 1970s, the story follows a drug-fueled detective named Larry Doc Sportello. The narrative centers on Sportello as he investigates the sudden disappearance of an ex-girlfriend. The film features Joaquin Phoenix in the lead role of Doc Sportello. The supporting cast includes Josh Brolin, Owen Wilson, Katherine Waterston, Reese Witherspoon, Benicio del Toro, Jena Malone, and Maya Rudolph. The screenplay was written by Paul Thomas Anderson and is based on the novel of the same name by Thomas Pynchon. The production was distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. The film explores the atmospheric shifts of the era through the perspective of its protagonist as he navigates a complex mystery. The project received nominations for various industry honors, including Academy Award recognitions for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Costume Design. The film maintains a tone consistent with the period setting while focusing on the detective's pursuit of the truth regarding his former partner.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A drug-fueled Los Angeles detective investigates the disappearance of his ex-girlfriend."

### Why Watch
- features a drug-fueled detective story
- set in los angeles at the turn of the 1970s

### Caveats & Content Note
- runtime is two hours and twenty-nine minutes
- rated r
- Tone & Suitability: The film carries an r rating and blends drama, mystery, and comedy.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: drama, mystery, comedy

## Streaming Availability Matrix

Direct streaming licensing updates dynamically. Consult the live tracking interface at https://www.archytele.com/show/inherent-vice-2014#watch.

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Paul Thomas Anderson
- **Networks / Studios**: Warner Bros. Pictures, IAC Films, JoAnne Sellar Productions

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Joaquin Phoenix** as *Larry "Doc" Sportello*
- **Josh Brolin** as *Lt. Det. Christian F. "Bigfoot" Bjornsen*
- **Owen Wilson** as *Coy Harlingen*
- **Katherine Waterston** as *Shasta Fay Hepworth*
- **Reese Witherspoon** as *Deputy D.A. Penny Kimball*
- **Benicio del Toro** as *Sauncho Smilax, Esq.*
- **Jena Malone** as *Hope Harlingen*
- **Joanna Newsom** as *Sortilège, who is also the narrator*
- **Jordan Christian Hearn** as *Denis*
- **Hong Chau** as *Jade*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: When was Inherent Vice released?
The film was released in the US on 12/12/2014.

### Q: What is the runtime of Inherent Vice?
The film has a runtime of 2 hours and 29 minutes.

### Q: What genres are associated with Inherent Vice?
The film is categorized as drama, mystery, and comedy.

### Q: Where does the story take place?
The story takes place in Los Angeles at the turn of the 1970s.

### Q: Who is the main character of the film?
The main character is drug-fueled detective Larry Doc Sportello.

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*