Waking Life
2001, English. Directed by Richard Linklater.
Dreams. What are they? An escape from reality or reality itself?
Waking Life is about a young man in a persistent lucid dream-like state. The film follows its protagonist as he initially observes and later participates in philosophical discussions that weave together issues like reality, free will, our relationships with others, and the meaning of life.
- Runtime
- 1h 41m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- English
- Rated
- R
Start now and it ends at ….
Worth the Hype
Clear your evening for this.
7.5/10 from 995 TMDB viewer ratings.
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Where to watch Waking Life
Waking Life isn’t on a subscription OTT platform in India, but you can rent it or buy it online.
Amazon Video
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home
Apple TV StoreAvailability in India as of 9 November 2026. Streaming data by JustWatch.
Cast & crew
- Richard LinklaterDirector
- Ethan HawkeJesse
- Julie DelpyCeline
- Wiley WigginsMain Character
- Bill WiseBoat Car Guy
- Alex E. JonesMan in Car with P.A.
- Steven SoderberghInterviewed on Television
- Ken WebsterBartender
- Charles GunningAngry Man in Jail
- Lorelei LinklaterYoung Girl Playing Paper Game
- Trevor Jack BrooksYoung Boy Playing Paper Game
- Glover GillAccordion Player
- Lara HicksViolin Player
Details
- Released
- 19 October 2001
- Country
- United States of America
- Written by
- Richard Linklater
- Budget
- $2M
- Box office
- $3.2M
Check ratings elsewhere
News & fan talk
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Waking Life: quick answers
Is Waking Life worth watching?
Our verdict is Worth the Hype: Clear your evening for this. It scores 7.5/10 from 995 TMDB viewer ratings.
How long is Waking Life?
Waking Life runs 101 minutes (1h 41m).
Does Waking Life have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for Waking Life. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
Waking Life parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
Waking Life is rated R in India. Check the rating guidance before watching with young children.
Which OTT platform is Waking Life on?
Waking Life isn’t on a subscription OTT platform in India, but you can rent it or buy it online. (Checked 9 November 2026.)
What movies are like Waking Life?
If you liked Waking Life, try Afro Samurai: Resurrection, The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep, Mortal Kombat Legends: Cage Match.
Who directed Waking Life?
Waking Life (2001) was directed by Richard Linklater and stars Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy, Wiley Wiggins.