Kingdom of Cinema

Rating: 10/10 (7 July 2012)

Wes Anderson movies are always fun to watch. Films like Rushmore, The Royal Tenenbaums, and Fantastic Mr. Fox are all indie comedy gold that never failed to stir meaningful emotions as well as keeping one entertained and laughing. Now, Anderson delivers his crowning achievement with the sentimental and beautiful Moonrise Kingdom.
The film follows the young couple of Sam and Suzy as they decide to run away together. They both have lives that are reminiscent of childhood— trying to fit in, being an outsider, and being continually frustrated by the seemingly idiotic world of adulthood. The adults, which include Suzy's parents, the local sheriff, and Sam's boy scout leader, all seem to occupy an absurd and cartoon world that seems shallow and lacking in the joys that the two main characters remain in touch with. The action takes place on an island community in 1965, which helps to create a majestic and beautiful world that the characters inhabit.
The two stars are both newcomers. Jared Gilman is great as the awkward outsider Sam, and plays his role as if he were a 1960s movie star. Kara Hayward is phenomenal as Suzy, the troubled girl that runs off with Sam. Together they have marvelous chemistry that make their scenes almost spellbinding to watch. The grownups are just are all great to watch. Bill Murray and Frances McDormand play Suzy's parents. They are both hilarious, and also slightly tragic in their sour marriage. Bruce Willis plays the slightly dimwitted cop who takes control of the rescue party to find the two kids. Edward Norton highlights the movie as the overzealous and dopey boy scout master. There are other cameos in the film, all of which are delightful and welcome.
Anderson has created a beautiful world that blends realism with surrealism. Many shots are classic Anderson, creating a scene that feels like a highly stylized stage play, while simultaneously taking full advantage of the art of the camera. Every single shot is beautiful, and helps to immerse the viewer in the world, the story, and the characters. Anderson also walks the thin line of indie comedies, and succeeds in not making any part of the film too depressing. Not that it isn't serious. The film's themes are as deep and meaningful as any drama about childhood—if not more so—and Anderson keeps the humor going throughout the entire adventure.
Moonrise Kingdom is without a doubt Wes Anderson's best movie yet. The sentimental and romantic story is perfect, and the performances are all mesmerizing. Anderson makes references to many films from the 60's, an era that has obviously had huge influence over him. As a result, this magnum opus of a film is the best one this year.
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