MOVIE REVIEW – Moonrise Kingdom reminds us of first love, childhood curiosity, and Wes Anderson’s quirky charm.
If you aren’t familiar with Wes Anderson, now would be a good time. He has directed a handful of comedies with his unique stylistic approach including: Rushmore, The Royal Tenenbaums, The Fantastic Mr. Fox, and The Darjeeling Limited.
Moonrise Kingdom takes place on an island off the coast of New England in the ’60s. A young boy named Sam (Jared Giman) runs away from his Boy Scout camp to meet up with his pen pal, Suzy (Kara Hayward). Despite their age, they make a plan to start their lives together in the wilderness of New Penzance Island. They are soon pursued by Suzy’s lawyer parents (Bill Murray & Frances McDormand), Sam’s scout leader (Edward Norton), and the island’s chief of police (Bruce Willis).
Quite an ensemble, right? Well it doesn’t go to waste. Wes Anderson’s cast is electrifying, in a comedic symphony where each character tessellates harmoniously with the next. No exception is made, even with newcomers Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward. Their lead performances ooze with charm and nostalgia, forcing the viewer to envy the wonder and curiosity that came with every childhood.
The movie is beautifully shot in Wes Anderson’s trademark style. Every frame of the movie looks like a painting you would find hanging in a museum. The camera work works both beautifully and hilariously, almost as if the work of the camera is a character all its own, something not common in films today.
Aside from a few moments of shock attempt that come off as cheesy, nothing really stands out as bad in this movie. In fact, I suggest taking the time to see this film in theaters while you can. To me, it comes off as one that presents itself that much more in a theater environment.
Moonrise Kingdom is a beautiful illustration of young love, adventure, and a star studded cast of quirky hilarity.
MOVIE NOTES: This movie is currently only playing in Salt Lake City, but is supposed to get a wider release at the end of June. Keep your fingers crossed!
DeLaCruz Designation: A
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