BY KAITLIN SINCLAIR, CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Paul Thomas Anderson’s “Licorice Pizza” just earned a nomination for Best Picture at the 94th annual Academy Awards. Fans of Alana Haim, the lead actress in the film have taken to Twitter to voice their frustrations about that being the only nomination the picture got. Many believe Haim was robbed of a best actress nomination.
“Licorice Pizza” is Alana Haim’s acting debut. Haim and her sisters, Danielle and Este are known as “HAIM”, an Indie Pop band that has been around for over a decade. These three sisters are extremely talented and are always being talked about. But who exactly is Alana Haim?
Alana is the youngest of her sisters, born on December 15, 1991, in Los Angeles, California. Haim can not only sing and play musical instruments, but she can act. Despite this being her acting debut, she has been nominated for several awards such as a BAFTA for best actress in a leading role, a Golden Globe, National Society of Film Critics, Critics Choice Movie Award, Satellite for best actress, and an NME award for best actor. These are not nominations that should be brushed over.
“Licorice Pizza” follows the story of Alana Kane (Haim) growing up in the San Fernando in 1973 and crossing paths with Gary Valentine (Cooper Hoffman). The two embark on a journey of self-discovery. The film follows real world events that were happening in the 1970s such as the oil crisis and the political campaign of Joel Wachs.
Haim’s character comes off as closed off, an adolescent-like girl trying to live up to her older sister’s reputation. When she is first introduced, Alana is working as a photography assistant, unsure of her future. Haim’s chemistry with Hoffman is unmatched right from the first scene. Their playful banter makes for a good romantic comedy.
The film was released on Thanksgiving Day (in major cities such as Los Angeles and NY), and on Christmas.
Even though her acting career is taking off, Alana has no plans to disband from her sister’s band and plans to continue to make music. Alana has done much press for this movie, appearing in magazines like Harper’s Bazaar, and talk shows such as Jimmy Kimmel. Haim has gotten support not only from her family (who make cameos in the film), but also from her fans. There is always discussion surrounding musicians who go into acting but Haim’s crossover has been electric. If you are not a fan of Alana, I suggest watching her film. Haim’s charming personality has won America and the rest of the world over.
HAIM’s music is available on all streaming platforms, and Licorice Pizza is in theatres now. Her Instagram handle is @alanahaim.
