Fantastic Mr. Fox

So I saw "Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)" for the second time tonight, the first at a private midnight screening, and to applaud it by referencing the first word of the title would be cliche, so I won't. I will, however, say that it was wonderful and is certainly a movie that any Wes Anderson fan would enjoy. But that's also boring, so I'll be perfectly honest. I could not be more pleased with this movie than I am; having seen almost none of the trailers, and even fewer of the tv spots, I went in with a completely blank slate and came out quoting it from the second I left the theater.

I read a review in Entertainment a few weeks ago that gave it an "A" rating, citing that Wes Anderson's style and tone were expressed perfectly through the world of animation, so much so that the critic said the director should have been manning the helm of animated movies from the start. I was hesitant to agree, as I feel that Anderson's live action films are nothing short of hilarious masterpieces. In fact, I was a little taken aback when I first read that Anderson was going to be working on an animated feature. I was not convinced that his subtle and awkward humor could work using anything other than real people. But I had no reason to worry, it turns out. The jerky animation and extreme close-ups that help personify the animals, not to mention the Anderson-esque dialogue, makes you forget that you're watching something fake.

If you love "The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)" and "The Life Aquatic (2004)" but are hestitant to see this movie because it's animated, then shut up. Go hock the G.I. Joe 2-Disc collector's Edition DVD that you got as an early Christmas present for some cash, and go see George Clooney talk smug while killing chickens. There is nothing to worry about. Unless of course you don't enjoy this movie, which means you don't have a soul, and you might want to seek professional help immediately. Why? Each and every line in this movie's 87 minutes is hilarious, and as is typical with all other Anderson movies, there are a few beautiful shots that catch you off guard, that seem almost out of place amidst the humor, but are surprisingly appropriate. The soundtrack is much more playful than his previous works, but it helps the mood and progresses the story. There was something else I wanted to say... oh, yeah. Perhaps what I find most enjoyable about Anderson's expositions is how he introduces each character in segments that are almost asides from the storyline. This film is no different, and is perhaps enhanced by the fact that it is animated.

Verdict: So Stoked out of my mind it's unbelievable. I haven't a single complaint about Wes Anderson's sixth feature length. While some have labeled it a children's movie, that is something of a rushed conclusion. It's certainly more accessible to children, and a lot of the jokes will go unnoticed, and that's okay. But in order to be fully appreciated, the movie's got to be seen by an adult. Jesus, I feel like I just kinda droned on for a few paragraphs. Go see the movie, that's all.