---
title: "Magnolia"
year: 1999
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/magnolia-1999"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 334
imdb_id: "tt0175880"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 189
community_rating: 7.7
vote_count: 4058
content_rating: "R"
---

# Magnolia (1999) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/magnolia-1999

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

The film "Magnolia" is a narrative that takes place in the San Fernando Valley. The story revolves around multiple characters and their interconnected lives on a single day. The narrative explores the lives of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including a father struggling with his mortality, a young woman, a caretaker, a son who has been estranged, a police officer, a boy with exceptional intelligence, a former prodigy, a game show host, and a daughter who has become estranged. The film's narrative is complex and multifaceted, featuring a large ensemble cast and numerous storylines that intersect and converge. The story is set in the San Fernando Valley, providing a backdrop for the characters' experiences and relationships. The film's narrative structure and character development are central to its exploration of the human experience.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A single day intertwines disparate lives in the San Fernando Valley."

### Why Watch
- Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson with his signature layered storytelling
- Features a large ensemble cast delivering powerful performances
- Praised for its ambitious narrative structure

### Caveats & Content Note
- Its runtime of over three hours can be demanding for some viewers
- Tone & Suitability: The film’s mature themes and intense drama make it suited for adult audiences.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: ensemble, melancholic, intense, interwoven

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | None | None | Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | HBO Max Amazon Channel, HBO Max | None | Apple TV Store, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video |
| **Canada (CA)** | None | None | Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, CosmoGo |
| **Australia (AU)** | HBO Max, HBO Max Amazon Channel | None | Apple TV Store, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Paul Thomas Anderson
- **Networks / Studios**: New Line Cinema, Ghoulardi Film Company

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Tom Cruise** as *Frank T.J. Mackey*
- **Philip Baker Hall** as *Jimmy Gator*
- **Philip Seymour Hoffman** as *Phil Parma*
- **Julianne Moore** as *Linda Partridge*
- **William H. Macy** as *Quiz Kid Donnie Smith*
- **John C. Reilly** as *Officer Jim Kurring*
- **Melora Walters** as *Claudia Wilson Gator*
- **Jeremy Blackman** as *Stanley Spector*
- **Jason Robards** as *Earl Partridge*
- **Melinda Dillon** as *Rose Gator*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: Who directed Magnolia?
Magnolia was written, directed and co‑produced by Paul Thomas Anderson.

### Q: When was Magnolia released in the United States?
It was released on December 17, 1999 in the US.

### Q: What genre does Magnolia belong to?
Magnolia is classified as an American drama film.

### Q: How long is the film?
The runtime is approximately three hours and nine minutes.

### Q: Does the film have an ensemble cast?
Yes, it features an ensemble cast including actors such as Tom Cruise, Julianne Moore and others.

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