The film received mixed reviews from critics, and grossed $33.4 million worldwide against an $11.5 million budget. Their challenges exemplify some of the career and lifestyle choices faced by Generation X. The plot follows Lelaina (Ryder), an aspiring videographer working on a documentary called Reality Bites about the disenchanted lives of her friends and roommates. It stars Winona Ryder, Ethan Hawke and Stiller, with supporting roles by Janeane Garofalo and Steve Zahn. Reality Bites is a 1994 American romantic comedy-drama film written by Helen Childress and directed by Ben Stiller.
