Happiness 1998
"You want. He wants. She wants. But nobody wants what I want."
Todd Solondz's audacious comedy-drama Happiness (1998) weaves together the intertwined lives of suburban New Jersey residents, each searching for connection in ways that challenge societal norms.
Director: Todd Solondz
Cast
Jane Adams
Joy Jordan
Philip Seymour Hoffman
Allen
Dylan Baker
Bill Maplewood
Lara Flynn Boyle
Helen Jordan
Cynthia Stevenson
Trish Maplewood
Louise Lasser
Mona Jordan
Ben Gazzara
Lenny Jordan
Camryn Manheim
Kristina
Rufus Read
Billy Maplewood
Jon Lovitz
Andy Kornbluth
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Happiness (1998) about?
Happiness follows the intertwined lives of several suburban New Jersey residents as they grapple with loneliness, desire, and the struggle for human connection. Through a mix of dark humor and unsettling moments, the film reveals how people's choices and unmet needs collide in unexpected ways.
Who directed Happiness?
Happiness was directed by Todd Solondz, a filmmaker known for his provocative and socially critical storytelling that blends comedy with uncomfortable truths.
Who stars in Happiness?
The film features powerhouse performances from Jane Adams, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Dylan Baker, Lara Flynn Boyle, and Cynthia Stevenson, each bringing depth to their complex roles.
Is Happiness (1998) worth watching?
If you enjoy films that push boundaries with sharp wit and unflinching honesty, Happiness is absolutely worth watching. Its exploration of human desire and societal taboos, combined with stellar performances, makes it a cult classic despite its controversial themes.
How long is Happiness?
Happiness has a runtime of 140 minutes, offering plenty of time to dive into its layered narrative and darkly comedic moments.
🎥 Trailer
About Happiness (1998) — A Dark Comedy That Reveals the Messy Truth About Longing
Todd Solondz's audacious comedy-drama Happiness (1998) weaves together the intertwined lives of suburban New Jersey residents, each searching for connection in ways that challenge societal norms. At its core, the film explores the fragile boundaries between desire, loneliness, and human intimacy, blending sharp satire with moments of raw vulnerability. Jane Adams, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Dylan Baker, and Lara Flynn Boyle deliver standout performances, grounding the film's darkly comedic tone while probing the unsettling truths beneath everyday lives. With a runtime of 140 minutes, Happiness immerses viewers in a world where laughter and discomfort constantly blur, offering a provocative reflection on the pursuit of happiness.
Directed by Solondz, whose signature style blends social critique with unflinching honesty, the film navigates themes of repressed longing and fractured relationships with a fearless approach. Its tagline—"You want. He wants. She wants. But nobody wants what I want."—captures the film's biting insight into the contradictions of human desire. As the characters' choices collide in unexpected ways, Happiness leaves a lasting impression, challenging audiences to reconsider what it truly means to connect in a world that often feels disconnected.
