Rich with film history and legends, the Forty Acres and Austin remain creative hubs that foster cinematic excellence. The Daily Texan selected five iconic films highlighting alumni filmmakers, Austin’s unique culture and the college experience that every Longhorn must watch.
Death Proof
Quentin Tarantino’s 2007 slasher “Death Proof” acts as the perfect Austin time capsule. Following a murderous stuntman, the film showcases iconic Austin businesses such as Guero’s Taco Bar and the Texas Chili Parlor. Inspired by low-budget 1970s action films, “Death Proof” is equal parts dry dialogue, intense car chases and a killer soundtrack. For Longhorns who are new to Austin, “Death Proof” is not only an enjoyable, action-packed film, but also a way to look into their new home city’s past landscape.
Slacker
With many of its scenes filmed on The Drag, “Slacker” represents the ultimate UT film. Written and directed by Texas filmmaker and Austin Film Society founder Richard Linklater, the film follows a group of slackers throughout a day in Austin. As they wander around the city, Longhorns watching can not only find familiarity in the places the group visits, but also in the eccentric people they meet. Set amid the backdrop of the UT Tower, one character proclaims, “This town has always had its share of crazies. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.” Through “Slacker,” Linklater encapsulates the spirit of Austin and its residents.
Dazed and Confused
Featuring Longhorn alumnus Matthew McConaughey, “Dazed and Confused” highlights a group of high school students as they get out for the summer and welcome the incoming freshmen. Set in the ‘70s and filmed in Austin, one of the movie’s iconic scenes showcases Top Notch, a burger joint located in North Austin on Burnet Road. Combining romance, comedy and drama, this coming-of-age film is yet another typical high school movie filled with parties, friendships and bullying. “Dazed and Confused” spotlights themes like growing older, as realized by the seniors, and strength from the bullied freshmen.
Office Space
Filmed around Austin, “Office Space” combines deadpan humor with biting social commentary to capture the absurdities and challenges of corporate life. The movie follows a frustrated employee at a software company who, fed up with his job, decides to stop caring and start skipping his shifts. With endlessly quotable lines, the film offers a satirical look at finding meaning and motivation in the workplace, making it an essential watch for Longhorns on the edge of the professional world.
Bottle Rocket
UT alumnus Wes Anderson’s debut feature “Bottle Rocket” delivers a quirky, offbeat crime comedy that introduced his dry wit, love for eccentric characters and emerging visual style. Filmed across Texas, the film follows a dysfunctional friend group plotting a heist, blending comedy with themes of love and loyalty. More than just a cult classic, “Bottle Rocket” offers Longhorns a glimpse into the early stages of Anderson’s creative career — serving as a reminder of the ambition and creativity UT nurtures.
