Over a decade after the original release of Slacker, Richard Linklater's films still reflect the views espoused by the bony-elbowed young man (the director himself) who hops in a taxi in the first scene. His opening monologue not only sets up this film, but the philosophical, conversational spirit of the film to follow. His character energetically tells the indifferent driver that he believes each path you choose not to take acquires a life of its own.