Wes Anderson is someone who continually impresses, even if I am not what one would call a ‘fan’ of his work. He is one of the few directors left that makes films that are distinctly stylized and distinctly his vision. The Grand Budapest Hotel is probably his finest work and like any work of art, it depends on the viewer to determine how much they appreciate it. This film is stylized to the brink of abstraction, but not quite. Impressive storybook photography mixed with intriguing, yet borderline cartoonish characters, The Grand Budapest weaves a tale worthy of a Teutonic picture book fable.
The Grand Budapest Hotel follows the adventures of the concierge Gustave (delightfully effeminate by Ralph Fiennes) and his Bellhop in training, Zero (played by Tony Revolori). The time period is between the two World Wars. Gustave is considered the epitome of concierges at the most respected hotel in Europe at the time. He has gained his legendary status in part by bedding the wealthy lonely octogenarian guests at the hotel. Each professes their undying love for him as well as being impressed by his impeccable knowledge of culture and social graces. Great fortune turns to trouble when one of his guests/lovers death is determined to be murder. When it is revealed that a priceless painting was left to Gustave in her will, he becomes the prime suspect. The race is on to clear his name before he is condemned to prison for life.
The respect for Wes Anderson in Hollywood is such that a wide variety of top notch actors strive to be in his movies despite their low budgets. This one is no exception with everyone from Adrien Brody to Harvey Keitel to Ed Norton to Willem Dafoe… the list goes on. Despite the quantity of characters, each one is richly developed and a pleasure to see fleshed out in their individually quirky ways. Always comedic, yet flavors of people and personalities we all know taken to extremes. An artistic vision from top to bottom.
Ultimately, at heart, it is a simple character period piece. No real surprises or twists and turns, just an artistic vision laid out for everyone to enjoy. There is not too many other ways I can think to describe this film, so I will just highly recommend it. Something different from Hollywood other than the generic cookie cutter formulas that make them money but leave viewers craving something different. This film satisfies that craving while at the same time wanting more. A Wes Anderson gem.
I give this film ***stars
Now that sounds like a refreshing break from all the ""blow 'em up" type action movies that clutter the cinematic landscape. I think I might enjoy this one. Thanks for the review Tad.
ReplyDelete