The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou
28 December 2004, early afternoon
I’m a really big Wes Anderson fan. Thankfully he did not disappoint with his latest film, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou. The movie is about an aging Jacque Cousteau type figure who is trying to make one last film about the ocean before retiring—a film about the Jaguar Shark that supposedly ate his best friend. Like all of Anderson’s movies, this film is quite surreal; probably the most surreal of his four movies so far. His last three films, the ones I have seen, all feature estranged fathers and sons, estranged husbands and wives, and plenty of widows. Personal loss and tragedy seem to be a subject that Anderson is very interested in. There is a sort of subtle tragedy that permeates all his movies. None of his movies are sad per say, but there is definitely a sadness to them. I think this may be why I enjoy all his comedies so much. Like the rest of his films, this movie has a strong cast. Bill Murray is really a joy to watch, as are Kate Blanchett and Owen Wilson. Anderson frames and composes each shot so well. The scenes are really a pleasure to watch. Enough gushing from me, go watch the film and tell me what you think.
Oddly enough I saw this yesterday as well. I can’t say I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, but I didn’t hate it either. The whole thing seemed rather more like a play you would see on stage (and I’m sure it’s filmed that way on purpose) rather than in a movie theatre.
Anyway, not great but not bad; something to do if you’re bored.
by Ju-Lian on December 29 2004, 7:18 pm #
I found this movie to be horrible. I am still wondering how this movie was not only pitched, but financed. The movie attempts to bury the humor into the little details of the characters, but it only succeeds at burying the humor six-feet under. I would not recommend this movie to anyone, unless some person enjoys laughing at things that are unfunny. The movie wanted to be an intelligent, more adult comedy, but it came off weak, insipid, and time-wasting. This movie was a disgrace to Rushmore and The Royal T’s. I hope you take my advice and save your money. This movie would not be funny even if you were incredibly stoned. ~Peter Kruger peterwork@valence-band.com
by Peter Kruger on January 4 2005, 4:47 pm #