Rian Johnson Puts This "Little" Movie on the Same Level as '8½': "It's Magical to Me"

The work of great directors often inspires a new generation of filmmakers. For Rian Johnson, creator of Knives Out, Woody Allen's classic romantic comedy Annie Hall was just that.

Rian Johnson Has Nothing But Praise for Woody Allen's 'Annie Hall'

Johnson calls Annie Hall one of his favorite movies and places it alongside masterpieces such as Federico Fellini's 8½.

In an interview in the book The Film That Changed My Life by Robert K. Elder he credits Annie Hall with redefining the possibilities of cinema for him:

“In terms of filmmaking, I'd put it [Annie Hall] up there with 8½ in terms of a film that personally redefined for me what film was capable of. This was a film that broke so many rules in terms of film narrative, and it moved me in a way that very few other films have moved me.

It's magical to me. To this day, I can watch the film and try to analyse it and try to figure out how this little movie works, and it's almost impossible.”

What Is 'Annie Hall' About?

Annie Hall tells the story of the complex relationship between New York stand-up comedian Alvy Singer (Woody Allen) and aspiring singer Annie Hall (Diane Keaton).

From the very first frame, viewers know that the couple broke up. The movie becomes a journey into the past, seeking to answer the question: what led to such a tragic ending?

'Annie Hall's Script Was Written in Only Four Days, Yet It Became a Cultural Phenomenon

The screenplay, which earned the film four Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director, was written by Woody Allen after a four-day stroll through New York City.

Although Allen was dissatisfied with the final version, the result exceeded all expectations. Annie Hall had a colossal impact on global culture, with references and quotes from the film appearing in hundreds of subsequent movies and TV series.

It was a breath of fresh air for late-1970s intellectuals, proving that a romantic comedy could be entertaining, profound, witty, and innovative.

'Annie Hall' Is Not Your Typical Rom-Com

Unlike many works in the genre, Annie Hall does not adhere to formulaic conventions. It isn't a "happily ever after" story but rather a subtle and ironic exploration of love, neurosis, and human relationships.

Annie Hall is an intellectual and stylistic breakthrough – a comedy unafraid to tackle serious issues while remaining sparkling and witty.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Annie Hall'?

• Annie Hall has 97% from critics and 92% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the movie has a score of 7.9/10.

• On Letterboxd, Annie Hall scored 4.0/5.0.

Where to Watch 'Annie Hall'?

Annie Hall is available to stream on Prime Video.