Bill Murray's Pants

It takes a very talented writer and director to create a film brimming with Hollywood A-listers that doesn't suck. If you look at the track record it's kind of a rarity; Valentine's Day and New Year's Eve are the two biggest offenders, but others like Burn After Reading and Men Who Stare at Goats are also terrible even though they have a cast full of great actors. Currently quantity seems to be far outstripping quality, so when a movie comes along with Bill Murray, Bruce Willis, Francis McDormand, Tilda Swinton, and Edward Norton leading a very small cast it might be cause for concern. Unless of course the writer/director happens to be Wes Anderson, then apparently all bets are off.

Moonrise Kingdom is a refreshing fairy tale about being in love. Through an interesting soundtrack, unique visuals, and great use of his actors, Anderson weaves a story without frills, but full of heart. Check out the plot synopsis, but the bare bones of the story is this: 

A young girl and young boy have a chance encounter, begin a courtship by letter, and run away together. The adults in their lives try to keep them apart, but they overcome obstacles to find happiness. It's a simple story, that's been told countless times before, but Anderson tells it in such a unique way while not trying to fool us into thinking it's a novel concept. He also adds layers into his story that are fun if you look for them, but don't detract from the story if you miss them. For example, the two kids meet during a performance about Noah's Ark and the movie's climax occurs during a flood at the same location. It's a nice touch, but not critical to the story. 

Bruce Willis, taking a break from his usual role as John McClane in a variety of movies (honestly, even if it's not Die Hard, he still seems to be playing McClane), plays a wonderful victim of unrequited love. Murray and McDormand somehow work as a somewhat dysfunctional couple of lawyers, and Murray rocks a truly fantastic array of plaid pants which kind of steal the show. Normally I'm not a fan of Edward Norton, but not only does he work in the role of Khaki Scout leader, I love him in this role. He is just campy enough to make it fun, but shows some great vulnerability and child-like qualities that make his character the most interesting in the story.

I could go into more analysis, but with such a simple story I see no need. Go see it, enjoy, and laugh at the inexplicable tent explosion initiated by the flood. Cause seriously, why?

Ignore the ax; aren't those pants just fabulous?