Movie Review Monday: Moonrise Kingdom

Wes Anderson creates some of the most quirky, original films out today. I love most of them - I can't say all because occasionally he goes a bit too far out there for my little mind to fully appreciate it (and by "occasionally" I mean "several scenes in Life Aquatic and the entirety of Hotel Chevalier"). This film was no exception. It was quirky, original, and went a little too far at one point. 

Thoughts:

1. The soundtrack was so good. I am still considering purchasing part of it. The soundtrack was so good, in fact, that Jeff and I remained seated through the entirety of the credits simply because the song was riveting.

2. The stars of the film were children. I would love to get a glimpse into the casting of these children. The lead actor and actress were compelling. Their speech patterns, maturity, and evident innocence were fascinating. And my bff imdb says this is the first film for both.

Photo borrowed from blog.zap2it.com

3. The film took place on a fictional New England island in the 60s. So. Hip. I felt like the set was plucked from the dreams of a trendy hipster blogger, all vintage dresses, saddle shoes, records, typewriters, knee high socks, cats, suitcases, and all in browns, muted lime, ballet pink, and shag carpet orange.

4. This was Frances McDormand's first Anderson film. Judging by her acceptance performance at the Tony's two years ago (when she rocked the old jersey cotton maxi dress and a jean jacket), she lives her life like she's in an Anderson film - she's odd, dry, and doesn't care about social norms. Hopefully we'll see her in more of his work in the future. I'm a fan.

5. Most of Wes Anderson's films feature caricatures more than round characters. Sure, they have issues, but everything is so deadpan that it's hard to wade through to a real, believable person. That seemed different in this film. Bill Murray got angry when his daughter was missing and emanated loneliness when interacting with his wife. Ed Norton was at times an obnoxious stickler for rules, and at other times showed genuine care and concern for his lost Khaki Scout. Frances McDormand displayed anger, regret, passion, love for her daughter. These characters just seemed more human than other Anderson characters. And I happen to like humans.

Photo borrowed from ew.com

6. There was an awkward scene in the middle of the movie. I was uncomfortable. Very.

7. Bruce Willis. I wouldn't say I'm a fan, not really. But I'm starting to notice that I have liked everything I've seen him in. Including this. I guess I'm a reluctant fan.

In conclusion, two claws up.