Introducing Paul Thomas Anderson

[Punch Drunk Hate]

Despite all the critic raves and all-star casts, Paul hasn't broke out into the mainstream the way Tarantino or Scorsese have. He has a reputation for being a "difficult" filmmaker, which is often exaggerated  as Paul has always said in interviews that wishes his films to always come out financially successful.  In light of this being the primer PTA hangout club which film would you first show to your friends or in your family? Boogie Nights is his most conventional film and likely to please acquaintances as long as their not prudish or bother by his heart on his sleeve influences.

[Lottery]

Boogie Nights was probably the most common entry point in the past but I reckon that the latest generation of movie enthusiasts have learned about his work through There Will Be Blood. While it's one of his most ambitious works, most people seem to appreciate its ambition and the overall virtuosity. And it isn't particularly difficult in comparison to his last 2 films. Hopefully my perception isn't altered by the little PTA-bubble that I inhabit when I say this, but I think it's probably his most well known work right now.
I used TWBB as an introduction for a number of friends and family members. That said, Boogie Nights is always going to be great starting point provided they aren't bothered by the whole porn thing- and I don't think they would mind the influences thing really.

[Sleepless]

Agree. CM remains my favorite of his films, but I think BN makes the most sense as an introduction to his work, then Magnolia after that.

[modage]

I'd always start with Boogie. If they're not movie people do TWBB next. If they are, just go chronologically.