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Empire Records
1995 90 min United States of America PG-13 12+
★6.1
Comedy, Drama, Romance
Director: Allan Moyle
Trailers
Description
The employees of an independent music store learn about each other as they try to stop the store from being absorbed by a large chain.
Budget:
$10M
US Gross:
$273,188
Worldwide:
$303,841
Starring
Anthony LaPaglia
Actor
Debi Mazar
Actor
Maxwell Caulfield
Actor
Awards
1 win & 1 nomination total
Key opinion
Empire Records is a lighthearted 90s cult film that resonates with audiences primarily through its nostalgic atmosphere and iconic soundtrack rather than its narrative depth. While many critics and viewers appreciate its unpretentious, character-driven charm, others find the storytelling to be clichéd and the thematic elements underdeveloped.
| Score | The curated rock soundtrack serves as the film's strongest element, successfully creating an immersive, energetic vibe. | |
| Acting | The ensemble cast, featuring early performances from Renée Zellweger and Liv Tyler, delivers engaging portrayals that carry the weight of the thin script. | |
| Screenplay | The screenplay offers a refreshingly simple, non-vulgar take on teen life, though others find it lacks substance and relies too heavily on clichéd scenarios. | |
| Theme | The film functions effectively as a nostalgic 'mood piece' for some, while others view it as a hollow experience that lacks necessary atmosphere or thematic depth. |