Friday, January 11, 2013

Movie Review ... Moonrise Kingdom

 

moonrise-kingdom-movie-posterWes Anderson loves strange characters.  Having directed ‘Rushmore’ and ‘The Life Aquatic’, he’s keen on portraying people’s quirkier sides.  ‘Moonrise Kingdom’ is no different as a weird ensemble go about their lives.  Perhaps this is a key to his success as his ability in making them seem real often enables for occasionally uncomfortable but often hilarious viewing.

Sam (Jared Gilman) and Suzy (Kara Hayward) are young kindred spirits having much in common.  Meeting once a year during scout camp, they make a pact to run away together.  When they do all hell breaks loose with local law enforcer Captain Sharp (Bruce Willis) on the hunt.  Along with Scout Master Randy (Edward Norton) and Suzy’s father Walt (Bill Murray), Sharp determines to catch them.  With some true eccentrics looking for them Sam and Suzy remain oblivious to the chaos they’ve created.

‘Moonrise Kingdom’s’ greatest appeal is its uniqueness.  In a movie about accepting each other’s foibles this is very appropriate.  That Anderson ensures we eagerly follow the rather odd personas is a testament to his skills.  Like any good comedy it’s about something rather than being a silly chase-around.   Issues of young love, complacency and loneliness are mixed in a beguiling and well filmed package.

With a great cast enjoying their roles it is easy going along for the ride as all effectively compliment each other.  The production’s overall look has an almost other-worldly quality reflecting the skewed attitude of the young leads.  The mid 60’s setting provides Anderson a licence for a fine musical soundtrack successfully conveying the adolescent’s various emotions.

Graced with a very individual style ‘Moonrise Kingdom’ is a breath of fresh air.  Amongst a cinema landscape filled with formulaic banality this stands out as a beacon of hope that creativity continues to prosper and can be found if one looks for it.

moonrise-kingdom-45r3

Movie Review Rating out of 10:  7

Movie Review by Patrick Moore

Agree with Patrick about his Movie Review? Then please use the comment box, titling your comments with Movie Review Moonrise Kingdom

Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at current movie releases in Australia.

Official HomePage click HERE

TRAILER

SOUNDTRACK

DVD

No comments:

Post a Comment