· movies · 18 min read
All 44 Alexander Payne Movies (in Order)
Welcome back to our movie roundup series! Today, we’re diving into the world of talented director Alexander Payne. From his quirky romantic comedies to his thought-provoking dramas, Payne’s films have become a staple in the independent film scene. Join us as we explore his unique filmography and delve into the stories that have put him on the map as one of Hollywood’s most respected directors.
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1. Inside Out (1991)
Inside Out, originally released in 1991, is a unique and unapologetic exploration of adult themes through storytelling. It features a collection of tales that delve into the complexities of love, relationships, and the human experience. The film’s edgy and unconventional approach, comparable to HBO’s famous series “Tales from the Crypt”, is set against a backdrop of high-quality production value and clever direction.
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2. Citizen Ruth (1996)
Citizen Ruth” (1996), directed by Alexander Payne, presents a compelling and controversial story about an irresponsible, drug-addicted woman facing an unwanted pregnancy. As Ruth (played by Laura Dern) navigates the turbulent life of an impoverished and homeless woman, she becomes the unwitting focal point of the nation’s highly contentious abortion debate. Both pro-life and pro-choice parties attempt to sway Ruth’s decision, employing various tactics to win her over.
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3. Election (1999)
Election” is a delightful 1999 comedy-drama film that follows the journey of a high school teacher who is caught in a battle for control with an ambitious and overly driven student politician. This entertaining tale, directed by Alexander Payne, is a witty exploration of power and ambition as it takes a humorous look at the challenges and triumphs of American high school politics.
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4. Committed (2000)
Committed” is a comedy-drama with hints of romance that follows a woman’s pursuit of her disillusioned husband. When her spouse suddenly vanishes, she embarks on a quest to find him amidst the chaos of their marriage.
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5. Jurassic Park III (2001)
Jurassic Park III” takes viewers back to the thrilling world of dinosaurs that the franchise is known for. The movie, set in the year 2001, sees Dr. Grant, played by Sam Neill, convince to go on a holiday to Isla Sorna under the pretense of a holiday.
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6. About Schmidt (2002)
About Schmidt” is a heart-rending drama film directed by Alexander Payne, starring Jack Nicholson. Set in the serene landscape of Minden, Nebraska, the movie follows the story of Warren Schmidt, a recently retired man, who embarks on a soul-searching journey to his estranged daughter’s wedding.
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7. The Assassination of Richard Nixon (2004)
In the gritty drama “The Assassination of Richard Nixon, ” set in 1974, Sean Penn takes on the role of a businessman whose downward spiral pushes him to extremes in his quest for the American dream. Inspired by a true story, the film explores the darker side of ambition as the protagonist’s desperation escalates.
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8. I Heart Huckabees (2004)
I Heart Huckabees is a unique and quirky comedy film that challenges the traditional detective genre. Directed by David O. Russell and written by Russell and Jeff Baena, the movie showcases a husband-and-wife team who help others grapple with their existential dilemmas, pondering life’s mysteries, and grappling with the meaning of it all.
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9. Sideways (2004)
Sideways is a captivating comedy-drama-romance film released in 2004, boasting an impressive cast of Paul Giamatti, Thomas Haden Church, and Virginia Madsen. Directed by Alexander Payne and written by Rex Pickett, Jim Taylor, and Payne himself, the movie takes two middle-aged men on a life-changing road trip through California’s wine country.
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10. The Cutting Edge: The Magic of Movie Editing (2004)
The Cutting Edge: The Magic of Movie Editing” is a documentary exploring the art of film editing. Through a series of carefully selected clips, the film dives into the innovative editing styles of groundbreaking films that have shaped the world of filmmaking.
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11. Z Channel: A Magnificent Obsession (2004)
Z Channel: A Magnificent Obsession is a captivating documentary that delves into the untold story of Jerry Harvey, the visionary programming chief of Z Channel, one of the first U. S. pay cable stations. Set in 1974 in Los Angeles, the film showcases the influential power of cable television, highlighting Z Channel’s eclectic mix of movies that sparked a revolution in the industry.
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12. The 77th Annual Academy Awards (2005)
Witness the glamour, excitement, and prestige of The 77th Annual Academy Awards, where the best of the film industry comes together to celebrate excellence in cinema. Hosted by the charismatic Chris Rock, the ceremony nominates critically acclaimed films such as The Aviator, Finding Neverland, Million Dollar Baby, Ray, and Sideways for prestigious awards.
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13. The 20th IFP Independent Spirit Awards (2005)
The 20th IFP Independent Spirit Awards” is an iconic event that celebrates the achievements of independent filmmakers from across the USA. In 2005, the 20th edition of the awards was held, featuring a star-studded ceremony that brought together Hollywood’s elites and indie legends.
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14. The Motel (2005)
The Motel” (2005) is an endearing coming-of-age comedy-drama that explores the complexities of adolescence, family, and friendship. Thirteen-year-old Ernest Chin, played by Jeffrey Chyau, navigates the challenges of growing up at a sleazy hourly-rate motel, which serves as both his home and workplace.
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15. Paris, I Love You (2006)
Experience an intricate tapestry of love, comedy, and drama with 2006’s “Paris, I Love You, ” directed by several renowned directors including Olivier Assayas, Frédéric Auburtin, and Gurinder Chadha. This anthology film takes viewers on a passionate journey through the city of love, Paris, exploring the diverse forms and impacts of love that can be found within the streets.
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16. Wanderlust (2006)
Wanderlust” is a fascinating documentary that celebrates the allure and influence of road movies in American culture. Directed by Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini, this thought-provoking film dives deep into the historical and social importance of these films, showcasing how they have shaped our collective memory and inspired countless filmmakers.
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17. Gray Matters (2006)
Gray Matters” is a comedic romance about two best friends, Gray and Sam, who are also siblings. Played by Heather Graham and Tom Cavanagh, the duo enjoys a close-knit life in New York City, where Gray is an ad campaign creator and Sam is pursuing his surgical internship.
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18. Cinema16: American Short Films (2006)
Cinema16: American Short Films is a mesmerizing compilation of 16 diverse short films by talented American filmmakers. This unique cinematic experience features an array of unique perspectives and stories that will captivate and inspire viewers. With a runtime of 3 hours and 29 minutes, the collection offers a stunning showcase of creative storytelling, encompassing a wide range of genres.
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19. Marc Jacobs & Louis Vuitton (2007)
Marc Jacobs & Louis Vuitton” is a riveting documentary that delves into the world of luxury fashion, specifically focusing on the iconic LV sign and the exceptional talent behind its creations - Marc Jacobs. The film takes us on a journey from the bustling streets of Japan to the glamorous fashion capital of America, providing a unique insight into the global influence of Louis Vuitton.
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20. I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry (2007)
I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry” is a hilarious and heartwarming comedy film that features a unique premise. Set in Brooklyn, two straight, single and charming firefighters, Chuck (Adam Sandler) and Larry (Kevin James), find themselves in a pinch when they realize they need insurance. However, domestic partner benefits are only available for gay couples.
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21. The Visitor (2007)
The Visitor” is a drama film released in 2007, directed by Tom McCarthy and starring Richard Jenkins, Haaz Sleiman, and Danai Gurira. The plot revolves around a college professor who travels to New York City to attend a conference, only to find a young couple living in his vacant apartment.
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22. The Savages (2007)
The Savages, ” directed by Tamara Jenkins, is a poignant and humorous drama that explores the complexities of familial responsibility. Set in 2007, the film focuses on the lives of a sister and brother who must face their fears and confront the realities of caring for their ailing father. Laura Linney and Philip Seymour Hoffman deliver stunning performances as they navigate through the challenges of their new roles.
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23. King of California (2007)
King of California” is a wildly unpredictable comedy-drama that follows the journey of an unstable father, Chick (played by Michael Douglas), as he attempts to regain his sanity after leaving a mental institution. Desperate to bond with his daughter, Miranda (Evan Rachel Wood), Chick embarks on an epic quest to uncover the fabled Spanish treasure buried beneath the suburban landscape. As father and daughter navigate the challenges of their new life together, the real treasure they discover is the unbreakable bond between them.
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24. Humboldt County (2008)
Humboldt County is a poignant comedy-drama that tells the tale of an exasperated medical student who unexpectedly finds himself summering in a remote commune of marijuana farmers - quite the change of pace from what he had in mind. Stuck in this world of ketchup-covered barbeques and kinky counterculture, the young protagonist embarks on a journey of self-discovery and growth, set against a backdrop of breathtaking drives along California cliffs. With an ensemble cast led by Jeremy Strong, Fairuza Balk, and Peter Bogdanovich, Humboldt County transports audiences to a place where life’s great mysteries are interwoven with heart, humor, and just a hint of danger.
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25. Corked (2009)
Corked” is a delightful and humorous 2009 documentary film, directed by Ross Clenenden and Paul Hawley. It showcases an intriguing tale of four various wineries in the Northern California wine country with intertwined destinies. When a renowned celebrity wine critic decides to visit the region, all the players are eager to get their wine rated as the finest.
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26. Sideways (2009)
Sideways takes us on a nostalgic trip through the picturesque landscapes of California and the vineyards of Napa Valley. A middle-aged Japanese man is on a journey to attend the wedding of his American-based friend, but not before they indulge in a final adventure together.
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27. All Good Things (2010)
All Good Things” is a chilling crime drama that delves into the dark secrets of a real estate heir, David Marks. Directed by Andrew Jarecki and written by Marcus Hinchey and Marc Smerling, this haunting film follows David’s life after his wife Katie mysteriously disappeared in 1982.
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28. The Descendants (2011)
The Descendants is a heart-wrenching drama and comedy that follows the story of a land baron named Matt King as he tries to reconnect with his two daughters after his wife is seriously injured in a boating accident. In the midst of an already complicated and tumultuous life, Matt’s world is further rocked when he discovers his wife was cheating on him.
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29. The Girl Who Wasn’t Missing (2011)
The Girl Who Wasn’t Missing, ” released in 2011, follows the tumultuous life of an isolated teenage girl who is unceremoniously thrown onto the streets after enduring a brutal gang rape and an unwanted pregnancy. This compelling drama, written by Kai Lanette and Shane Ryan-Reid, takes viewers on a harrowing journey through the harsh realities of life while navigating the complexities of relationships and personal growth.
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30. Cedar Rapids (2011)
Cedar Rapids” is a hilarious comedy film from 2011, directed by Miguel Arteta and written by Phil Johnston. The movie follows Tim Lippe (played by Ed Helms), a naive and unsuspecting insurance worker who is sent to the annual insurance convention in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Tim is quickly swept up into the world of convention veterans, who teach him the ins and outs of the business and offer their own unique brand of guidance.
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31. The 84th Annual Academy Awards (2012)
Get ready for an unforgettable night filled with glitz, glamour, and endless laughter as you witness the 84th Annual Academy Awards! . Hosted by the legendary Billy Crystal and featuring a star-studded lineup, this awards ceremony honors the best film achievements of 2011.
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32. Nebraska (2013)
Nebraska” is a poignant drama set in the heartland of America, where an aging father, played by Bruce Dern, embarks on a journey from Montana to Nebraska with his estranged son, portrayed by Will Forte. The journey is not without its challenges as they face the harsh realities of small-town life in the United States. The film explores the themes of confronting the past and the impact of old age.
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33. Trespassing Bergman (2013)
Trespassing Bergman” brings together some of the most renowned filmmakers for a journey to Ingmar Bergman’s iconic home on the solitary Swedish island of Faro. Delving deep into Bergman’s extensive filmography, the passionate cinephiles discuss his profound legacy and share their personal insights on the Swedish legend. Featuring director Jane Magnusson and a star-studded line-up that includes Tomas Alfredson, Woody Allen, and Wes Anderson, this engrossing documentary offers a compelling exploration into the mind and artistry of one of cinema’s greatest visionaries.
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34. The Oscars (2014)
Experience the glitz, glamour, and heartfelt moments of Hollywood’s most prestigious event, The Oscars (2014). This year, the Academy celebrated the achievements of the film industry in 2013.
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35. Kumiko, The Treasure Hunter (2014)
Kumiko, The Treasure Hunter is a compelling drama that tells the story of a disillusioned Japanese woman named Kumiko, who mistakenly believes she’s discovered a hidden treasure map - a copy of the 1996 film Fargo. Filled with determination and a desire for a new life, Kumiko embarks on a journey to locate the hidden fortune, even though she faces numerous obstacles and language barriers. As the film unfolds, it becomes clear that Kumiko’s mental state is fragile, and it’s the struggle of her inner demons that adds depth to this gripping and unpredictable tale.
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36. Crash Pad (2017)
Crash Pad is a thrilling romantic comedy that pushes the boundaries of love and revenge. Domhnall Gleeson plays the ambitious romantic, who believes he’s found true love with a charming woman in his life, played by Christina Applegate. After falling for her, the character discovers she’s married, and instead of ending the affair, they engage in a twisted game of retaliation against her unsuspecting husband. As the game progresses, they find themselves growing fond of each other, but the lines between hate and love become increasingly blurred.
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37. Downsizing (2017)
Downsizing is a 2017 science fiction drama that takes a social satirical twist. Directed by Alexander Payne and written by Payne and Jim Taylor, the film stars Matt Damon, Christoph Waltz, and Hong Chau.
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38. Joe Frank: Somewhere Out There (2018)
Joe Frank: Somewhere Out There” is a riveting documentary that delves into the life and career of renowned audio artist Joe Frank. With an innovative approach to radio, this film showcases Frank’s work and the pivotal moments that have shaped his four-decade long career. Featuring interviews with Harry Shearer and Ira Glass, this documentary offers an enlightening exploration of Frank’s artistic journey and the transformative impact his work has had on the audio industry.
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39. Hal (2018)
Hal (2018) is a captivating documentary that delves into the exceptional life of Hal Ashby, a renowned filmmaker who created some of the most iconic movies of the 20th century. Known for his Oscar-winning films such as Harold and Maude (1971), Shampoo, and Being There, Ashby’s relentless dedication to his craft led him to create artistic masterpieces that stand the test of time.
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40. Under the Eiffel Tower (2018)
Under the Eiffel Tower (2018) is a lighthearted, romantic comedy film that follows Stuart, a man experiencing a mid-life crisis and seeking something more in his life. On a whim, he joins his best friend’s family vacation to Paris, which leads to an unexpected romantic moment. While standing under the iconic Eiffel Tower, Stuart impulsively proposes to his friend’s 26-year-old daughter, Rosalind.
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41. Private Life (2018)
Private Life, ” directed by Tamara Jenkins, is a poignant and moving drama comedy that explores the turmoil surrounding fertility treatments and adoption. The film centers around an author, played by Kathryn Hahn, who undergoes multiple fertility therapies in her quest to get pregnant.
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42. Above Suspicion (2019)
Above Suspicion” is a gripping biographical crime drama that delves into the true-crime story leading to the first-ever conviction of an FBI agent for murder. Set in 1970s Kentucky, the film tells the tale of an agent (played by Emilia Clarke) who forms a dangerous alliance with a notorious convict (Jack Huston), leading to a series of shocking crimes.
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43. Once Upon a River (2019)
Once Upon a River (2019) takes audiences on a mesmerizing journey with Margo Crane, as she embarks on an unforgettable odyssey along the Stark River. This heartwarming drama, based on the novel by Bonnie Jo Campbell, brings to life a world filled with enchanting wonders and unforeseen dangers.
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44. Small Town Wisconsin (2020)
Small Town Wisconsin is a heartwarming and humorous tale centered around a devoted father who struggles with his addiction to alcohol. This emotional journey takes you through the challenges and joys of parenthood as the main character attempts to be the best dad he can be. Along the way, he learns to reconnect with his community and face his demons in a small town in Wisconsin.
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