🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Peter Sollett
- Genre: Comedy, Drama, Music, Romance
- Release year: 2008
- Runtime (length): 1h 30min
- IMDb rating: 6.6/10 (196K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 76%
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
A lovesick guy and a girl with equally messy ex-situations spend one chaotic night chasing a band and a very drunk friend, somehow finding true love in a city that never sleeps (but probably should).
🍿 Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist: Detailed Plot Synopsis
The Setup: A Night in New York City
Nick, a heartbroken musician, continues to make mix CDs for his ex-girlfriend, Tris. Norah, a perceptive young woman, finds solace in these discarded CDs, connecting with Nick’s taste in music. Their paths cross one night in New York City, setting the stage for an unexpected adventure. The film establishes a vibrant, music-filled atmosphere, showcasing the energy of the city’s indie scene.

An Unlikely Pairing
Norah impulsively asks Nick to be her boyfriend for five minutes to ward off Tris. This initial act leads them on a chaotic journey through the city’s nightlife. They search for Norah’s drunken friend, Caroline, and attempt to locate a secret show by their favorite band, Where’s Fluffy?. These interwoven quests allow Nick and Norah to connect on a deeper level, discovering shared interests and vulnerabilities.

Confrontations and Revelations
Throughout the night, Nick and Norah encounter various obstacles, including their respective exes. These confrontations force them to confront their past relationships and consider their feelings for each other. The film explores themes of heartbreak, self-discovery, and the search for genuine connection in a fast-paced urban environment. The comedic elements are balanced with moments of emotional honesty.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Nick (Michael Cera): A heartbroken musician, and the only straight member of a queercore band, searching for both a lost ex and genuine connection.
- Norah (Kat Dennings): A sharp-witted young woman, navigating her identity while seeking an authentic relationship, using music as a guide.
- Tris (Alexis Dziena): Nick’s shallow and manipulative ex-girlfriend, whose actions set in motion the events of the night.
- Thom (Aaron Yoo): Nick’s supportive and flamboyant friend and bandmate, offering guidance and comic relief.
- Caroline (Ari Graynor): Norah’s wild and often inebriated friend, whose antics drive much of the plot’s chaotic energy.
- Dev (Rafi Gavron): Another of Nick’s supportive and humorous bandmates and friends.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Norah: “It reminds me of this part of Judaism that I really like. It’s called Tikun Olam. It says that the world’s been broken into pieces and it’s everybody’s job to find them and put them back together again.” – Norah explains her worldview, suggesting that people are meant to help fix the broken world.
- Nick: “Well maybe we’re the pieces. Maybe we are not supposed to find the pieces. Maybe we are the pieces.” – Nick responds to Norah, suggesting they themselves are the broken pieces.
- Caroline: “I have seen Jesus!” – Caroline, in her drunken state, believes she has encountered a divine presence.
💰Box Office
- Budget: $10,000,000
- Domestic Gross: $31,487,293
- Worldwide Gross: $33,556,631
💥 Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist Reviews
Personal Review
I absolutely loved this movie! It felt so real and relatable, like a perfect snapshot of being young, confused, and in love with music. The scene where they first connect over their shared musical tastes gave me goosebumps, and I completely fell for their awkward yet genuine chemistry. It’s the kind of movie that makes you want to explore your own city at night, hoping for a chance encounter that changes everything. Seeing this film made me remember my college days.
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of romantic comedies”
- “Viewers interested in indie music”
- “Teenagers and young adults”
- “People who enjoy movies set in New York City”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Mature themes”
- “Some sexual content”
- “Language”
- “Brief drug references”
- “Drunkenness”
Professional Reviews
- Rolling Stone: “A sweet and energetic indie rom-com that perfectly captures the awkwardness and excitement of young love against the backdrop of New York’s vibrant music scene. Cera and Dennings have undeniable chemistry, making their all-night adventure both believable and charming.
- The New York Times: “While it treads familiar ground, ‘Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist’ is elevated by its witty script and strong performances, especially from Kat Dennings. The film captures the unique energy of a single night and the transformative power of shared experiences, with a killer soundtrack to boot.
- Variety: “An enjoyable if somewhat predictable teen romance. The film succeeds in creating a believable world inhabited by relatable characters, and the soundtrack is a standout. Ari Graynor’s performance as the perpetually inebriated Caroline is a definite highlight.
Audience Reactions
Kat Dennings’ performance as Norah was a standout – witty, sarcastic, and totally relatable.: The chemistry between the leads was amazing, and the soundtrack was perfect for the movie.
The movie captured the feeling of discovering new music and sharing it with someone special.: It’s a fun, feel-good movie that’s easy to watch and enjoy, perfect for a chill night with friends.
Overall Consensus: A charming and enjoyable teen romance that is elevated by strong performances, a killer soundtrack, and relatable characters.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “Ari Graynor (Caroline) improvised her whole speech at the Port Authority when Kevin Corrigan decided he wouldn’t say a word during his scene.”
- “The film showcases real music venues in New York City, adding to its authentic feel.”
🖥️ How to Watch Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist?
Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist is widely available for streaming and purchase. You can find it on platforms like Prime Video and Apple TV for rental or purchase. Check your local listings for availability on other streaming services. Physical copies (DVD/Blu-ray) are also readily available for purchase online through retailers like Amazon, offering an option for those who prefer owning the movie.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist, you might like these similar films:
- Juno (2007): Both films feature a similar quirky, indie vibe and coming-of-age themes with a focus on witty dialogue.
- Before Sunrise (1995): Shares the theme of two strangers connecting deeply over a single night, exploring philosophical and romantic ideas.
- Sing Street (2016): Features music as a central element, driving the plot and character development in a coming-of-age story.
- Empire Records (1995): Cult classic focusing on a group of young people working in a record store, sharing a love for music and dealing with personal issues.
🛒 Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist Related Products
- Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack): Relive the movie’s best moments with the official soundtrack, featuring indie hits from Vampire Weekend, Bishop Allen, and more. This digital download lets you curate your own infinite playlist.
- Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist (Blu-ray): Own the movie on Blu-ray and experience the romance and humor in high definition. Includes behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the cast and crew.
- Michael Cera: Authentic Signed Photograph: Authentic signed photograph from Michael Cera, in his role as Nick from ‘Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist’. Each picture is certified authentic by a trusted professional.
- The Jerk Offs Band T-Shirt: Show your love for Nick’s band with this limited-edition ‘The Jerk Offs’ T-shirt, featuring their iconic logo. Perfect for music lovers and fans of the film’s quirky humor.
🎧 Soundtrack
Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
- “Middle Management” – performed by Bishop Allen
- “Speed of Sound” – performed by Chris Bell
- “Very Loud” – performed by Quiet Riot Club
- “Rafters” – performed by Vampire Weekend
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
The movie was filmed on location in New York City, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the East Village and Lower East Side. Notable locations include Katz’s Delicatessen and Electric Lady Studios.
The title refers to the endless possibilities of connection and discovery that music can provide. It also symbolizes the potential for an ever-evolving relationship between Nick and Norah, filled with shared experiences and discoveries.
The movie is rated PG-13 for mature thematic material including some sexual content, language and brief drug references.
🔥 Bonus Content
Michael Cera Kat Dennings interview Nick and Noras infinite
Check out this interview with Michael Cera and Kat Dennings to dig deeper into their experiences filming ‘Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist’ and their thoughts on the characters and themes explored in the movie.
Devendra Banhart Cameo On Nick & Norahs Infinite Playlist
Devendra Banhart’s cameo in ‘Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist’ might just make you a fan of both the movie and the musician. Don’t miss this short but memorable appearance!
Michael Cera & Kat Dennings Talk ‘Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist’ At TIFF | Entertainment Weekly
Did you know Michael Cera and Kat Dennings actually got along so well off-screen? Hear them talk about their friendship, the movie, and the challenges of filming in this interview from TIFF.
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