Reality Bites is a 1994 American romantic comedy-drama film written by Helen Childress and directed by Ben Stiller in his feature directorial debut. It stars Winona Ryder, Ethan Hawke, and Stiller, with supporting roles by Janeane Garofalo and Steve Zahn. In the film, Lelaina (Ryder), an aspiring videographer, works on a documentary about the disenchanted lives of her friends and roommates.
Theatrical release poster
Ben Stiller's work in The Ben Stiller Show gave the film's producers the trust to allow him to direct the film.
The film's exteriors were shot primarily in Houston, including Tranquillity Park.
"Stay (I Missed You)" from the film's soundtrack launched the career of singer-songwriter Lisa Loeb
Benjamin Edward Meara Stiller is an American actor, filmmaker, and comedian. He is the son of the comedians and actors Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara. Stiller was a member of a group of comedic actors colloquially known as the Frat Pack. His films have grossed more than $2.6 billion in Canada and the United States, with an average of $79 million per film. Throughout his career, he has received various awards and honors, including an Emmy Award, a Directors Guild of America Award, a Britannia Award and a Teen Choice Award.
Stiller in December 2020
Stiller signing autographs before a screening for Tropic Thunder at Camp Pendleton in August 2008
Stiller in 2010
Stiller with Dustin Hoffman, 2017