Moonrise Kingdom

Wes Anderson is becoming one of the most talked about and anticipated writer/director filmmakers of our time. His latest creation is in line with his quirky and unique style. Panning camera shots, odd, yet endearing characters, and a sense of being lost in time are typical of his films. Set in 1965 on the island of New Penzance, a small island retreat off the coast of New England, Moonrise Kingdom is a story of young love and rebellion. Youth in revolt from a society that doesn't understand or appreciate them. The backdrop is the impending storm of the century, which plays havoc on all of the people scrambling or living on the island.

Newcomers Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward (both 13) play the leads, and surround themselves with veterans Bill Murray, Bruce Willis, Frances McDormand, Ed Norton, Jason Schwartzman, Harvey Keitel, Bob Balaban, and Tilda Swinton. That's right, 2 Oscars, another 8 nominations, 3 Golden Globes and another 14 nominations. Not a bad cast. Everyone seems to want to work with Wes Anderson, and the beauty of his films is that the focus begins and ends on the two kids. Every supporting player knows their role and doesn't step too far over the line.

I have to say, it was a breath of fresh air to see Ed Norton do some decent acting. It's been quite awhile since I was impressed with one of his performances. He plays Scoutmaster Ward, who leads a team of Khaki Scouts as they prepare for a large scout competition. One of the scouts (Gilman) writes a letter of resignation and runs away to be with his love (Hayward). Hayward's parents (Murray and McDormand) enlist the local sheriff (Willis) to help with the search.

The great thing about Anderson's films is the unexpected dialogue that pop up between already dysfunctional characters. Everyone on screen act like it's perfectly normal, which in turn creates the type of film experience that becomes authentic. It's a bit of a trip watching any of his films, but light and entertaining.

The kids show promise as actors, but not a tremendous amount of range here. Straight-faced frozen frames bombard the film, and are only accentuated by the clever use of nature as the perfect complement to the emotionless gazes into the camera, or off into a distant space.

Anderson contributes to his impressive reputation here with what might be his best work to date. The love story is a bit mature for a pair of 13 year olds, but that is the message intended. Love conquers all.

I fully appreciate the originality and the professionalism of the actors involved. They all take their roles seriously and create a great film that will likely be nominated for awards. Best Director, Original Screenplay, and possibly Picture depending on the competition. I would agree with other critics that this is the best non-blockbuster film of the year thus far. It's a very entertaining experience, but you have to enter the theatre with an open mind and an affection for Wes Anderson. 9/10.