Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist (film)

Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist
Release Date: October 3, 2008
Director: Peter Sollett
based on novel by Rachel Cohn


Plot Summary: Michael Cera plays Nick, a heartbroken teen depressed by his break up with his old girlfriend, Tris. He plays in a “Queer core” band called, “The Jerk offs.” He is out at a show one night with his friends and they plan to search for hip counterculture band called, “Where’s Fluffy?” Nick sees is at the show and Tris tries to make him feel bad, but in addition teases Nora. Nora kisses Nick and asks him to pretend they are together and then she realizes that he is “Tris’s Nick!”
Nora and Nick end up sharing chemistry and end up searching for “Where’s Fluffy?” and Nora’s good friend, Caroline who was very drunk in the back of the band van with Nick’s gay band member friends, when they lose her.
As the night progresses they also run into Nora’s arrogant and opportunistic on and off again boyfriend, and we also learn that Nora has a lot of “pull.” Finally ick and Nora end up at her father’s recording studio and Nick learns that Nora is very wealthy. They have a great night, eventually find Caroline, but after she gets lost in a train station, and Tris learns for Nick it really is over!
Critical Analysis: The film’s focus on music as a uniting factor was a fun tool to unite Nick and Nora. It provided them with a positive thing to build a relationship on and to enjoy without being seedy. Nora is witty and strong, while Nick is awkward and funny. The chemistry works between them and makes for a fun film to watch. It is also great that teens are almost the whole focus. We do not see parents, and the teens all have such well developed characters.
Annotation: Nick is healing from his break up and he goes out and meets Nora. Together they listen to music, chase a band, search for her friend, and fall for one another just a little bit.

Genre: YA movie: comedy

Curriculum Ties: There are no curriculum ties

Challenge Issues: There are none.

Age Level: Rated PG 13

Discussion Points:
1.) Do you have a playlist? Does it match your friends?
2.) Did you think the “Queer core” band was a negative representation of homosexuality?
3.) If you had a record producer for a father, would you be uneasy telling people?
Challenge Issues: There are no issues to challenge.

Selection: This was a YALSA recommended film, and in addition, the focus on teen relationships makes it relevant and appropriate for teens. I feel it is also just fun and worth watching for all ages 13 and up.