December 26, 2004
movies updated
So I just finished watching the Life Aquatic. It was a complete mess. I am beginning to have some bad realizations about Wes Anderson. I rewatched The Royal Tenenbaums last night and realized that that was a mess as well. But it somehow worked. I don't think The Life Aquatic even had a chance of being a good film because of some horrible script decisions. (the pirate scenes, last helicopter scene) It hit me really hard how dark and sadistic Wes Anderson has become. Wes simply cannot do violence. At best, he comes off incredibly pretentious. The naivitee I loved in Rushmore is nowhere to be seen anymore. Max Fischer could never write a scene where Buckley the dog gets run over by a junkie. Granted, Wes will always be a joy to watch because of his meticulous production sets and superb music selection. I just don't think I believe in the guy anymore. Also, hearing Sigur Ros in a Wes Anderson film is just plain weird/wrong.
In a better note, I also finally watched Sideways. It was everything everyone has said about it. Very understated and touching. It is quite possible my favorite film of 2004 despite the fact that it "steals" the last shot of the first movie I am writing. (Though mine is better, HA) It may not be the most original or creative film to ever grace the screen, but it was perfectly acted and perfectly directed and should be rewarded for that.
I hate to say that Bad Education also dissapointed as well. It might just be that we are used to the creative whirlwind of madness that is an Almodovar!. But in all honesty, there really wasn't much of the inspiring storytelling in this one. Perhaps it is asking too much of him. The last few scenes did finally manage to play like really great film noir though.
Posted by Fran at December 26, 2004 06:40 PM