Focus Features | Release Date: June 16, 2023
6.6
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Generally favorable reviews based on 120 Ratings
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78
Mixed:
23
Negative:
19
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7
devgreJun 23, 2023
Anderson brings the charm he is known for, but for me failed to tell a satisfying story. Production design, screenplay, jokes, cinematography and performances are all top notch. Plot arc however remained pretty weak.
3 of 3 users found this helpful30
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5
JamkasJun 30, 2023
I don't think this was a horrible movie but I can't get myself to consider it a great experience either. The characters and story felt quite tedious if I'm honest. It wasn't what I would consider boring but I was constantly expecting for theI don't think this was a horrible movie but I can't get myself to consider it a great experience either. The characters and story felt quite tedious if I'm honest. It wasn't what I would consider boring but I was constantly expecting for the movie to take off in some way but it never really did. When I walked out of the cinema I was feeling I surely had missed something but I as much as I think about it I can't come up with anything... Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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4
yogiebereJul 2, 2023
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It had some entertaining moments and good acting from a star studded cast obviously, but overall fell flat and wasn't an improvement over the mediocrity of the French Dispatch. It moved at TV show miniseries pace with the movie taking us down several separate plot lines and development of characters ultimately for the plots to abruptly end at the 1:40 mark without any of them wrapping up in meaningful or satisfying ways.

The parts with the play within a play really took me out of the moment and didn't really seem to matter, I felt no connection to the "real world" characters. The scene at the end was maybe supposed to be powerful and meaningful? But it just made think wow this is really weird.

Also, what a waste of many good actors such as Cranston and Robbie.
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2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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7
davemelbourne58Jul 4, 2023
Great cast, but maybe too many actors to keep track of Spectacular sets.I need to see it again. What's it all about?
Maybe about how we all deal with or don't deal with grief. How we try to make connections with other human beings, maybe?
Great cast, but maybe too many actors to keep track of Spectacular sets.I need to see it again. What's it all about?
Maybe about how we all deal with or don't deal with grief. How we try to make connections with other human beings, maybe? All I know is that all of the children in this movie are given the BEST lines. I liked Asteroid City, but I'm not so sure why.
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2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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7
moviemitch96Jun 28, 2023
The unmistakably quirky Wes Anderson's latest film brings together yet another star-studded ensemble cast to tell a story set within a play about a 50s-esque small little desert town that finds itself under quarantine following an alienThe unmistakably quirky Wes Anderson's latest film brings together yet another star-studded ensemble cast to tell a story set within a play about a 50s-esque small little desert town that finds itself under quarantine following an alien encounter and other unusual occurrences. I always find myself delighted whenever I get to see a new Wes Anderson film, being quite a fan of his unique style, sets, and quirky characters, worlds, and mannerisms. And even if I ever find myself a bit disappointed or not as impressed with a certain film of his, I always have fun watching him and his films due to just how unique and unmistakable his trademark and charm is. Such is the case with this film, as I found myself a bit more disenchanted with him than I usually am. This is probably mostly due to how narratively abstract and all over the place the film felt at times. Being that this film's story is set within a play, and the film's editing consistently switches back and forth between the story of said play and the actors and behind the scenes sequences that are shot in black and white, it all just felt a bit too muddled to me at times. By the film's (and play's) literal third act, I felt as though it had lost just about all of its sense of direction for better or worse. On the flipside however, the entire cast is a hoot to watch, with way too many big names and great performances to single out just a handful. The colorful sets and idiosyncratic dialogue throughout are all unmistakably Wes as well, which I wouldn't have had any other way. Overall, narratively speaking, it easily felt like Anderson's messiest film, but when you enjoy the man and his films as much as I do, it's hard to fault him too much. Besides, the cast and colorful sets and writing/dialogue all keep it plenty entertaining and should satisfy most other Anderson fans as well, though it will hardly win any newcomers to his style over. Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
MarkHReviewsJul 13, 2023
Wes Anderson is back. And his latest offering may well be his most accessible and emotionally rewarding film to date.

A lot of Anderson’s cinematic flourishes are back as well: a chapter structure (including an “optional intermission”), a
Wes Anderson is back. And his latest offering may well be his most accessible and emotionally rewarding film to date.

A lot of Anderson’s cinematic flourishes are back as well: a chapter structure (including an “optional intermission”), a focus on dysfunctional families, quirky costumes, elegantly symmetrical camera work and a washed-out color palette.

It’s 1955. Five child scientists and their families have gathered in Asteroid City, somewhere in the desert of the American Southwest, for a convention of the Junior Star Gazers/Space Cadets, where they will receive awards for their recent inventions. When an alien arrives and steals the artifact that gave this town its name, everyone is placed in quarantine. This provides plenty of time for snappy dialogue and wry observations.

The film opens with a severe-looking, black-and-white Bryan Cranston introducing a stage play to be performed on TV (think “Playhouse 90”). However, instead of showing a stage, props and backdrops, the performance is a conventional film. So we have a film within a play within a TV show. After that, things get complicated.

As with most Anderson projects, A-list stars abound. In addition to Cranston, Tilda Swinton, Tom Hanks, Jeff Goldblum, Steve Carell, Adrien Brody, Margot Robbie, Jeffrey Wright, Liev Schreiber, Edward Norton, Hope Davis, Matt Dillon, Rupert Friend, Willem Dafoe and others have minor roles. Jason Schwartzman, as a warzone photographer who hasn’t had the courage to tell his four kids their mother has died, and Scarlett Johansson, as an alcoholic suicidal actress, do most of the heavy lifting.

The dialogue in “Asteroid City” is as clever, sardonic and densely packed as the conversations in all the other good Anderson movies. But in his previous films, dialogue has often teetered on the edge of snarky condescension. Here, the observations are just as quick, but they contain a vulnerable honesty that make the characters appealingly human. For example, Tom Hanks (perhaps the emotional center of the film) gives son-in-law Jason Schwartzman the following heartfelt advice: “In my loneliness… I’ve learned… to give complete and unquestioning faith to the people I love.” In a different scene, when meeting Scarlett Johansson’s character, Jason Schwartzman explains, “I’m a widower, but don’t tell my kids.” Later, as Schwartzman breaks the news to his children, he consoles his son Woodrow by saying, “Let’s say she’s in heaven, which doesn’t exist for me, but you’re Episcopalian.”

“Asteroid City” is laugh-out-loud funny, quirky and visually spectacular. It also may tug at a few heart strings you didn’t know you had.
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1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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6
Luke9648Jul 21, 2023
Wow. Well here's the positive- it's a Wes Anderson movie. So if you love Wes Anderson films, go ahead and give it a whirl. Amazing cast too. Like, all-time amazing. Now here's the bad- like....... not much really happens. It kind of comes andWow. Well here's the positive- it's a Wes Anderson movie. So if you love Wes Anderson films, go ahead and give it a whirl. Amazing cast too. Like, all-time amazing. Now here's the bad- like....... not much really happens. It kind of comes and goes and it's over. Cute enough i suppose. Aggressively mediocre. Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
QuagFire101Jun 30, 2023
Got a little confused on the first viewing as I initially thought the framing device intruded on the story about the people IN Asteroid City, but on rewatch it hit me that the framing device of the Play IS the core of the story and I found itGot a little confused on the first viewing as I initially thought the framing device intruded on the story about the people IN Asteroid City, but on rewatch it hit me that the framing device of the Play IS the core of the story and I found it to be actually really cool. Also the alien and roadrunners were certified Funny Little Guys™. Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
VeyniJul 23, 2023
Not for everyone.
'Asteroid City' is a new movie directed by Wes Anderson, known for such works as 'The Grand Budapest Hotel', 'The French Herald', 'Isle of Dogs' and others. The events of the movie unfold in 1955 in the city of 'Asteroid
Not for everyone.
'Asteroid City' is a new movie directed by Wes Anderson, known for such works as 'The Grand Budapest Hotel', 'The French Herald', 'Isle of Dogs' and others. The events of the movie unfold in 1955 in the city of 'Asteroid City', where an annual meeting of young astronomers is held. The city got its name because of its close proximity to the crater formed after the fall of the asteroid.

The film's cast is impressive (Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks, Jeffrey Wright, Edward Norton, Bryan Cranston, Margot Robbie, Willem Defoe), but the director fails to capitalize on its potential. Instead of giving each actor a chance to showcase their talents and create well-developed characters, too many characters appear for no reason and are not properly developed. It makes it feel like everyone in the picture was introduced just to simply fill in and diversify scenes, rather than contribute to the story.

I don't know who chose the release window for this movie, but that person deserves a huge thank you, as the action of the movie takes place in a hot desert, which perfectly harmonizes with the summer heat outside.

The movie has a dual storyline, which is definitely a creative decision. One line is the play being watched by the regular audience, meaning us, and the second line is the behind-the-scenes activity of the actors who are in the play. In my opinion, this could have been safely abandoned as it throws off the pace and complicates the plot. In addition, these lines are constantly changing each other, which does not bring anything good to this, already boring, movie. Also, the picture itself was broken up into acts and scenes, which detracted from the full immersion in the movie.

The camerawork, costumes, and set design in the movie are top notch! If you have already watched a couple of Anderson's movies and appreciated his visual style, you should definitely watch this movie. You will get everything that you loved this director for, and maybe even more.

I would like to mention a little about the child actors. Their talented acting and naturalness in the frame stand out against the rest of the cast. If they were the main characters and given more room to express themselves, the movie would have been more enjoyable and memorable.

Overall, 'Asteroid City' is a prime example of style dominating the story and content of the movie. I hope that after the sensational Hollywood strikes, Wes Anderson can find himself a good screenwriter. Maybe I just didn't understand the author's brilliant idea, I don't know for sure.

From me, the movie gets a 6.7 out of 10, and if you round it up, it's a rather restrained 7.
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1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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6
MBurghJul 1, 2023
This cryptic film amused me, but failed to move me. All performances hit the right tone, but in service to what? I get the feeling Anderson is filming all the plays he laid out in Rushmore.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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4
saucyninja007Jun 23, 2023
"Asteroid City" is a step-up from "French Dispatch" but still one of the weakest offerings from Wes Anderson. The signature style is there but - unlike with Anderson classics like "The Royal Tenenbaums" and "The Grand Budapest Hotel" - there"Asteroid City" is a step-up from "French Dispatch" but still one of the weakest offerings from Wes Anderson. The signature style is there but - unlike with Anderson classics like "The Royal Tenenbaums" and "The Grand Budapest Hotel" - there is a noticeable lack of heart. The characters in "Asteroid City" don't feel like people. Instead they feel like side-characters or puppets in a Wes Anderson doll-house, delivering their lines in the Wes Anderson style - robotic, sarcastic and smug - that comes off tedious instead of charming in this instance. After watching "Asteroid City", I wondered why half of the characters were even in the story (the teacher and student characters immediately come to my mind). It is a shame that the plot in "Asteroid City" fails to generate any momentum. This review doesn't have any plot spoilers but honestly I do not know what I could even spoil since nothing meaningful happens. There are some mildly comical scenes here and there but nothing truly engaging. The framing device of "Asteroid City" is unnecessary, disorienting, and indulgent: the audience (us) watches actors play actors in a play while at the same time watching said play unfold as a movie. What purpose does this ultimately serve? I could not find one. Overall my opinion of "Asteroid City" becomes less favorable the more I think about it. The film treats the unique style as the focal point whereas Wes Anderson's betters films use the same unique style to tell stories that have characters that change in meaningful ways and connect to the audience. I hate having to rate "Asteroid City" so low because I would rate many of the director's films as 8/10 or higher.

Short version of my review: pick any other Wes Anderson film at random and there is a 90% chance you will enjoy that film more than "Asteroid City".
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8 of 9 users found this helpful81
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0
WizzleJul 5, 2023
"Asteroid City" is a tedious and aimless tale that fails to captivate or engage its audience. With a combination of a meandering plot, lackluster storytelling, and controversial narrative choices, this movie unfortunately misses the mark on"Asteroid City" is a tedious and aimless tale that fails to captivate or engage its audience. With a combination of a meandering plot, lackluster storytelling, and controversial narrative choices, this movie unfortunately misses the mark on multiple levels.

One of the most significant drawbacks of "Asteroid City" is its lack of direction and purpose. The story wanders aimlessly, leaving watchers struggling to find a coherent thread or meaningful resolution. The absence of a compelling narrative arc results in a tedious watching experience, leaving little room for excitement or investment in the outcome.

Adding to the disappointment are the homosexual plot lines that are introduced throughout the story. While inclusivity and representation are important in literature, the execution of these plot lines within "Asteroid City" raises concerns. It is essential for LGBTQ+ characters and relationships to be portrayed with authenticity and respect. Unfortunately, this movie fails to achieve that, offering underdeveloped and forced narratives that feel out of place and disconnected from the overall story.

Moreover, the mention of involving children in these plot lines is deeply problematic. The portrayal of such sensitive topics requires great care and consideration to avoid crossing boundaries or engaging in inappropriate storytelling. It is essential for producers to handle these subjects with utmost sensitivity, prioritizing the well-being and safety of all characters involved. Regrettably, "Asteroid City" fails to accomplish this, adding another layer of discomfort and disappointment to an already lackluster narrative.

The writing style of "Asteroid City" also contributes to its overall failure. The dialogue lacks descriptive depth and emotional resonance, hindering viewers' ability to connect with the characters or immerse themselves in the world. This lack of skillful storytelling further amplifies the movie’s shortcomings and compounds the disappointment felt by viewers.

In conclusion, "Asteroid City" falls short on multiple fronts. The wandering and tedious narrative, coupled with poorly executed homosexual plot lines involving children, detract from any potential value the story may have held. Viewers seeking an engaging and coherent narrative will likely find themselves bored and disillusioned. It's regrettable that a movie with such potential fails to deliver, leaving behind a trail of controversy and disappointment.
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3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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7
JLuis_001Jun 16, 2023
Wes Anderson sure knows how to put together a cast, but his stories have started to falter. The French Dispatch frankly left no impression on me and even though that process is repeated with Asteroid City, I have to admit that I had more funWes Anderson sure knows how to put together a cast, but his stories have started to falter. The French Dispatch frankly left no impression on me and even though that process is repeated with Asteroid City, I have to admit that I had more fun with this one. The humor may not be sharp but it's still ingenious and Anderson's characters manage an excellent chemistry because the actors are clearly not being pressured into getting into them but rather getting to embody them so that they work within the context as is often the case with the director's stories.
Anderson movies do not show bizarre worlds by any means, but their identity evidently feels like a different reality. But as with everything, the sins of performance often show up and once again Anderson hits the same wall.
There's no depth in his plot at all. Neither argumentative nor emotional. His formula becomes evident one more time and reflects the repetitive process in which the director is stuck.

And the easy answer is to say that if you are an Anderson ''fan'' you can't find it boring or bad, but so that means that you can't demand anything from him anymore? Is he so entrenched in a method that he can't get out of it? If so, I think Wes Anderson should rethink his career.

I'll make it clear. I liked this movie. But I'm not going to applaud Anderson's same gimmick over and over again.
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3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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2
jackthemcJun 24, 2023
Just a bad movie. Plot is way too convoluted for its own good, dialogue is all but impenetrable, characters are wooden robots — such a misuse of this arsenal of a cast. The only redeeming thing about this is that Wes film style we've all comeJust a bad movie. Plot is way too convoluted for its own good, dialogue is all but impenetrable, characters are wooden robots — such a misuse of this arsenal of a cast. The only redeeming thing about this is that Wes film style we've all come to love, but you'd have a better time watching this one on mute. Expand
5 of 7 users found this helpful52
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2
Brent_MarchantJun 23, 2023
Writer-director Wes Anderson has lost his way, and this film proves it. I realize that the auteur’s signature style of filmmaking is an acquired taste, and, to his credit, he’s made some fine pictures over the years. But this one is not amongWriter-director Wes Anderson has lost his way, and this film proves it. I realize that the auteur’s signature style of filmmaking is an acquired taste, and, to his credit, he’s made some fine pictures over the years. But this one is not among them. In fact, contrary to many of the inexplicable claims that this is his finest release, I’d contend just the opposite. It’s arguably his worst, a meandering, cryptic, unfocused piece that’s so muddled you’ll need the assistance of a search party to find your way out of it (that is, if you even care by the time the end of this overlong mess rolls around). The director appears to have become so enamored with his own eccentricity that it doesn’t even seem to matter to him whether or not viewers are on the same page as he is. Admittedly, this offering once again captures Anderson’s singularly stylish look with a stunning production design and gorgeous cinematography. But that’s all it has going for it, and that’s unfortunate given the phenomenal cast he has available to him. What’s more, despite his proficiency in creating superb visual style, he’s forgotten about pairing it with meaningful (or even interesting) substance. Its incomprehensibility and inclusion of bits that are there just for the sake of their own whimsy seriously undercut any effort to make this an intelligible work. In short, “Asteroid City” is yet another major disappointment in what is turning out to be a dreadfully dismal summer movie season. It’s likely to appeal only to diehard fans of the director (and maybe not even a lot of them this time out). If you’re on the fence about this one, consider the following two telling tipoffs: (1) when no one in the theater is laughing at what’s been billed as a comedy, that should speak volumes about it (as happened at the screening I attended); and (2) when you consider how aggressively and ubiquitously the distributors have been promoting this film in ads on TV and the internet, it’s obvious they’re trying awfully hard to peddle shabby, substandard merchandise. This is a huge waste of time and money; don’t squander yours. Expand
7 of 10 users found this helpful73
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7
Rebecca31Jun 27, 2023
A bunch of A-List actors playing a wide range of characters all find themselves in the middle of the most Wes Anderson film you’ll ever see. Everything from the cinematography, sets, soundtrack and script are constantly reminding you that yesA bunch of A-List actors playing a wide range of characters all find themselves in the middle of the most Wes Anderson film you’ll ever see. Everything from the cinematography, sets, soundtrack and script are constantly reminding you that yes you are indeed watching one of his movies. His style of filmmaking is so unique you only need to look at a single frame to know you’re watching a Wes Anderson film. Asteroid City leaves you feeling like you just spent the last two hours inside Wes Anderson’s head. All you fans out there will not want to miss this.

A writer telling the story of his play about a family suffering from a recent loss as they travel to the remote town of Asteroid City in 1955 for a Junior Stargazing and Space Cadet convention. A whole bunch of unique and quirky characters have travelled for the competition but things take a weird turn when the event is disrupted by world-changing events.

Well you certainly can’t get any more Wes Anderson than that. Who knew he had another level of quirky but he continues to amaze. This is definitely peak Anderson alright, it’s not his best but it’s the most Wes Anderson movie he’s ever made that’s for sure. Asteroid City is packed full of well known actors, some new to the Wes Anderson list and others who are his regular go-to choices. It’s enjoyable, funny and it looks absolutely amazing. I’m sure the set designers always have a great time on a Wes Anderson movie. His movies definitely don’t disappoint when it comes to creativity. I honestly think he sees the world differently to the rest of us and now with Asteroid City you’ll get the perfect opportunity to see the world through his eyes.

Asteroid City starts off very strong and it will delight cinema audiences with the usual quirkiness and humour but as the film progressed it felt like it lost it’s way a little bit and needed something a little more. I enjoyed it and it was funny but it’s not his best and the story isn’t perhaps as well structured as The Grand Budapest Hotel or Isle of Dogs.

Some actors can slot themselves right into a Wes Anderson world and it just works, such as Jeffrey Wright, Steve Carell and Liev Schreiber. They have been great additions to the regular list of names, but others almost seem out of place, we all love Tom Hanks but he did stick out despite everything going on around him. And with an amazing star studded cast it’s hard to make room for them all and as a result a few are underused. My only criticism on that is, if someone’s role in a movie is little more than a cameo then perhaps their name doesn’t need to be on the poster.

Despite that I still really enjoyed Asteroid City and it’s just a further reminder of the level of creativity and imagination that goes into all aspects of filmmaking and no amount of AI or heartless CGI will ever come close to replacing the hard work that goes into the moviemaking process on both sides of the camera. The further AI is kept away from the arts, the better because real filmmakers creating films they want are what cinema audiences want to spend their time watching. I saw Asteroid City in a giant screen at almost max capacity in the middle of a heatwave on a Friday night and it was amazing to see so many film buffs in a time where cinemas are struggling. You really can’t beat the experience of seeing a movie on the big screen with a crowd all enjoying themselves, and the only place you can get that is in a cinema.

Asteroid City might just be too weird and out there for some people but it should delight his fanbase. All I’ll say is to anyone who might not love his previous movies, Asteroid City may not be to your tastes. If you find yourself unsure of what to see this week then the trailer gives a good idea of what you’re in for. Recommended for all the Wes Anderson fans.
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2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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3
Bykovsky7Jul 16, 2023
It was Anderson's worst movie. Extremely boring and unfunny. For the first time in my life I was thinking of leaving the cinema in the middle of the movie.
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1
crab_stixJul 21, 2023
Asteroid City feels like a bad Wes Anderson parody that you would see on youtube that's generated by AI.
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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3
x2OhSevenJun 27, 2023
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great camera work and acting. Story itself is… something else. Watchable, but only once, and just barely. Expand
3 of 5 users found this helpful32
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1
silveradoJun 28, 2023
Today this movie came to my attention, it was in our local theatre. I didn't want to know too much about it, I'd like to get surprized. The first thing I noticed is that the photography is not really sharp, only when Scarlett is really closeToday this movie came to my attention, it was in our local theatre. I didn't want to know too much about it, I'd like to get surprized. The first thing I noticed is that the photography is not really sharp, only when Scarlett is really close up. Scenes filmed with dolly are very unclear.

As for the story, it could not intrigue me at all. I'd hoped there would me more science fiction to it, but no. That part stays very childish and leads to nowhere and nothing. Some scenes have their moment...but it all get lost in a fog of boring nonsense.
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4 of 7 users found this helpful43
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1
VulgarisJun 28, 2023
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's a story within a story. One story is about a writer who doesn't know what to do with his story. He promptly dies and nothing happens. The other is the story he wrote, which is a mess about some random people who end up in a random town in the middle of nowhere. The protagonist seems to be this widower, and nothing happens to him. He learns nothing and nothing changes, the death of his wife has no effect on him. His actor learns that there was a deleted scene in the script in which his character suffers with his wife death, but that has zero relevance. And there is an extra-terrestrial that comes to the town twice in order to track a rock and his presence has almost no effect in the story.

It all goes to prove that it doesn't matter how nice the film looks and how good is your cast, if the story is rubbish, the film is rubbish.
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4 of 7 users found this helpful43
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0
MurrayT57Jul 12, 2023
I don't know what it means to be a "Wes Anderson fan" but I don't want to be one. This movie is unwatchable. I tried to watch it but couldn't for very long. Maybe you'll like it if you are a "Wes Anderson fan."
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
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4
TVJerryJul 4, 2023
With every film he creates, Wes Anderson gets more self-consciously affected and less rewarding. Most of the action takes place in the titular desert outpost, but he uses a play with useless narration as a framing device  (presented byWith every film he creates, Wes Anderson gets more self-consciously affected and less rewarding. Most of the action takes place in the titular desert outpost, but he uses a play with useless narration as a framing device  (presented by period-stiff announcer Bryan Cranston). Anderson, has gone for a sun-drenched retro-futuristic 50s vibe, but the stiff performances and pause-laden pacing only serve to distance the audience from everything. The visuals are bright and appealing, but every actor is so burdened with deadpan delivery they seem like automatons repeating absurdities. With his preciously-staged, precisely mounted moments Anderson's formal, stiff style is more like a museum exhibit than a cinematic comedy. Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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1
TwiTuJul 19, 2023
I dont even know what I just watched.
Its like someone completely disconnected from reality and emotions wrote this.
Its a completely pointless movie about nothing, but written with such detail about useless things, that it seems it was
I dont even know what I just watched.
Its like someone completely disconnected from reality and emotions wrote this.
Its a completely pointless movie about nothing, but written with such detail about useless things, that it seems it was written for autists who would take that movie apart for decades, finding new things every day to uselessly talk about.
The army of well known actors is impressive and the visual style is very interesting (1 point for that), but ultimately its a completely pointless movie that could have been made by AI, before AI even had emotions added to it and tried to understand them by making this movie.
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1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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3
NavyBeanJul 2, 2023
I loved Rushmore, Moonlight Kingdom, Bottle Rocket (though raw) and Tennenbaums. But I dozed off about 45 minutes into this. Woke up and didn't feel like I missed anything .. actually wished I had slept longer. I wish Wes would focus insteadI loved Rushmore, Moonlight Kingdom, Bottle Rocket (though raw) and Tennenbaums. But I dozed off about 45 minutes into this. Woke up and didn't feel like I missed anything .. actually wished I had slept longer. I wish Wes would focus instead of trying to do so many ideas in a half-assed way. I didn't get to know any of these characters at anything more than a surface level. Looks nice. Good score. Tries way too hard to be avant-garde and I will never ever watch this movie again.

Little girls are best thing about this. Make a movie with them.
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3
FaxthtaxJul 11, 2023
Absolute rubbish story that does not grip at any time.
As usual, top-name cast. Wes-style with weird scenes, over-saturated color.
I think at this point, Wes has Wessed himself too much.
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9
StroidToy69Jul 9, 2023
It was really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really good. I'm not actually going to do 150 reallys. It was definitely a Wes Anderson movie. I likedIt was really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really good. I'm not actually going to do 150 reallys. It was definitely a Wes Anderson movie. I liked it. Auteur directors used to do “one for me, one for you” in order to secure funding for their movies, they’d make one with mass appeal to get a lot of money for the studios and then do a movie for them which would often be less appealing to the public and earn less money. I would say Asteroid City was “one for me”. Despite my better instincts, I do like the social fascist Wes Anderson. A tweeness and meta self referentiality so advanced that it becomes a cartoon. A 1950s live action anime. The perfect film for the era of Bidenomics: a nostalgic portrayal of high modern military Keynesianism and the high point of postwar Broadway theater/stage acting, when American industrial policy could both develop the hydrogen bomb and provide an artistic political economy for Tennessee Williams. Essentially Wes Anderson doing theodicy. Very very funny. Expand
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10
Psitivebomthis1Jun 28, 2023
I can't help it, I just love it
It is understandable that Wes Anderson movies are not for everyone. But come on, this is gold. I personally was giddy throughout this whole film, same with the French Dispatch. People are saying these two films
I can't help it, I just love it
It is understandable that Wes Anderson movies are not for everyone. But come on, this is gold. I personally was giddy throughout this whole film, same with the French Dispatch. People are saying these two films are over-the-top-Wes-Anderson-vibes, but they are my personal favorites of his. I feel as though he's captured the tiny quirks of humanity, as well as larger emotional themes, with total grace! And in his own original way.
There is no clear theme here, but that is just fine. It sparked much discussion between me and my friend who I saw it with. I really have nothing more to declare, so I write this line to fill space.
Don't hate, just let it be what it is.
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3 of 8 users found this helpful35
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8
alejandro970Jun 29, 2023
De las recientes propuestas del verano 2023, esta es sin lugar a discusión una de las más honestas. Todo lo que necesitaba es un interesante abanico de actores y una trama vintage que no tienta el corazón con recurrir a lo absurdo, rayando enDe las recientes propuestas del verano 2023, esta es sin lugar a discusión una de las más honestas. Todo lo que necesitaba es un interesante abanico de actores y una trama vintage que no tienta el corazón con recurrir a lo absurdo, rayando en lo cómico, sin esperar ser tomado en serio. Vean la y no se arrepentirán. Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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6
royalguy07Jun 27, 2023
Full Wes Anderson, at his best and worst, truly fully realized and unleashed. Narrative structure here is indulgent at best and does not seem to do anything other than get more Anderson regulars on the screen.
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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7
DiracJun 29, 2023
Another entraining movie by Wes Anderson.
I would love to get a few moments of seeing the world through this mans eyes.
I think its on par with The Life Aquatic and The Royal Tenenbaums, dont think its as good as Fantastic Mr. Fox or Isle of
Another entraining movie by Wes Anderson.
I would love to get a few moments of seeing the world through this mans eyes.

I think its on par with The Life Aquatic and The Royal Tenenbaums, dont think its as good as Fantastic Mr. Fox or Isle of Dogs. But this is still a movie you should see at least once.
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1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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10
BagelTCGJul 10, 2023
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I love everything about this movie, it is in my top 5 of all time. Its message is clear and perfectly delivered, as are all of the lines. The writing is beautiful, really I have no complaints at all. I love the alien. Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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8
linkdk59Jun 23, 2023
A strange film, but interesting and funny! And this felt incredibly refreshing, after my strong diet of superhero films. I was pleasantly entertained for the whole thing! I was never really sure where this was going to go. This is mainly anA strange film, but interesting and funny! And this felt incredibly refreshing, after my strong diet of superhero films. I was pleasantly entertained for the whole thing! I was never really sure where this was going to go. This is mainly an entertaining story about an isolated town in the desert, which is set near an asteroid crater. But it's also about a family that is temporarily stranded there. In the film, you will see a lot of unique characters. And all the characters are interesting in their own ways. But there is also an upper layer in the movie. Because the inner core of the movie is actually supposed to be a play. And sometimes, the movie switches to "the theatre world" so to speak, and you see the actors working on the play. This isn't a documentary, it's just some kind of mise-en-abime I suppose. I found that concept really interesting, but I am not sure if that worked properly, and ultimately i was more interested in the inner story itself. But there is at least one intriguing payoff for this concept later in the film. Expand
2 of 7 users found this helpful25
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9
bertobellamyJun 16, 2023
Possibly, my favorite Wes Anderson live-action film. The meta aspect of it is brilliant, and the dialogues are very witty. The photography, as always, is magnificent; every frame looks like a painting. Funny and profound at the same time.
3 of 11 users found this helpful38
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10
GraesioJun 21, 2023
One of Wes Anderson's best movies. It is one of those movies that gets better if you see it more than once given the way it plays with time and setting.
3 of 11 users found this helpful38
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10
mowlJun 22, 2023
One of the best Wes Anderson films of this year in general in my opinion. Superbly written dialogues, characters, postmodern acting-all of that is amazing and beautiful.
3 of 11 users found this helpful38
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10
CutlosoJun 28, 2023
Contemporary Theatre of the Absurd
Theatre of the Absurd - in my opinion - is the most intellectually stimulating genre of theatre - later movie - that is greatly misunderstood and underrated in our contemporary times because of modern
Contemporary Theatre of the Absurd
Theatre of the Absurd - in my opinion - is the most intellectually stimulating genre of theatre - later movie - that is greatly misunderstood and underrated in our contemporary times because of modern audiences' need for meaning and clarity behind each and every aspect of the visual medium. There are very few examples throughout the history of the genre in terms of theatre of film, and this - I dare say - is a modern masterpiece in its respective field in that respect.
Seek no objective meaning, no context, no concrete structure other than the ones that will naturally come to be in your mind as you watch this movie. It is as life itself as much as life can be as life itself.
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2 of 8 users found this helpful26
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10
chikiponmexJun 28, 2023
Wes's best, Phew King Brilliant!
Peps dissin this be cray-cray! The script, the casting, the acting, the movie set, the cinema photography, the costumes .... everything about Asteriod City is pure genius. Worth seeing more than twice. The
Wes's best, Phew King Brilliant!
Peps dissin this be cray-cray! The script, the casting, the acting, the movie set, the cinema photography, the costumes .... everything about Asteriod City is pure genius. Worth seeing more than twice. The issue most reviewers have with Astroid City is themselves ... no, seriously, read their reviews, I mean, who are they trying to impress? It's like they're writing an answer to a question on their final exam for a class in film theory. Lighten up, people! Wes has pioneered new frontiers in comedic movies and Asteriod City is worthy of being considered his magnum opus. I have a hard believing anyone who gave Asteriod City a rating of less than 8, truly liked any of Wes's other works: either you get Wes, or you don't.
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2 of 8 users found this helpful26
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10
SoManySaltySJWSJun 28, 2023
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. If you're a fan of Wes Anderson, you'll love it
This movie is fantastic.
Not just a feast for the eyes but genuinely one of the funniest comedies I've ever seen, with a very clever, somewhat convoluted premise, relatable and likeable characters, incredible performances, a dazzling minimalistic score and most surprisingly, an intriguing posit on the meaning of life in the wake of a mysterious alien landing, routine, almost daily shootings, atomic bombs being tested near civilian homes and shady government operations who's true purpose of which we can only speculate
I could have binge-watched a whole series of this if it were a TV series, every character was compelling, the dialog was whip smart and the story was diligently paced without ever dragging
Asteroid City should be witnessed in a theater, ideally with friends and family. I haven't been so engaged and smitten by a comedy in years. Easily contends with Grand Budapest Hotel and Life Aquatic for best Anderson movie to date.
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2 of 9 users found this helpful27
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10
CryariversjwsJun 28, 2023
"You can't wake up if you don't fall asleep."
Wes anderson's True Stories for the Hotel Chevalier + The Darjeeling Limited-combo lovers who grew up in/doing (musical) theater (aka me).
The way Anderson explores and expresses grief and the
"You can't wake up if you don't fall asleep."
Wes anderson's True Stories for the Hotel Chevalier + The Darjeeling Limited-combo lovers who grew up in/doing (musical) theater (aka me).
The way Anderson explores and expresses grief and the grieving process speaks to a pointed part of my soul that makes me feel less alone in the world. Asteroid City felt like the culmination of a lifetime of exploration and rumination over what it means to be human and exist on earth populated with diverse personalities big and small.

The three little daughters are quite possibly my favorite Wes Anderson characters to ever exist, I love them fiercely and dearly like they are of my own bone and blood and cannot wait to spend time with them again.

Technically stunning, the sets x the costuming x the hair x color story x the production design are meticulous and exhilarating. Care imbued into every tiniest detail, eliciting rousing emotion from the most unexpected moments and objects. Love Wes Anderson for always giving us a full course dining experience at the theater. It's so fun to watch him play with all the tools he has acquired in his creative toolbox and find new ways to experiment with medium and form. Truly inspiring to see the growth and expansion throughout Anderson's career culminate into this beautifully executed motion picture about love, curiosity, creativity, relationships, passion, discovery, humanity, the world around us, and life itself.
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2 of 9 users found this helpful27
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8
lema_honaJun 24, 2023
Wes Anderson pulled out all the stops, Wife and I loved this. We also enjoyed "French Dispatch" so thats probably why! :)
1 of 5 users found this helpful14
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8
GemsicleJun 23, 2023
A gargantuan group of elite actors attempts to scam the mind of an individual and make that individual have high expectations for the film, but director Wes Anderson does not sidetrack himself from his seniority or nuances. His ability toA gargantuan group of elite actors attempts to scam the mind of an individual and make that individual have high expectations for the film, but director Wes Anderson does not sidetrack himself from his seniority or nuances. His ability to make his actors face directly at the camera and move the gimmick like a side-scroller swallows the viewers' attention to keep them intrigued by the presentation. Expand
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
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10
TrunkisJun 28, 2023
Break down
No pun intended - if you are a fan of Wes Anderson ... I do wonder why you would read any reviews, because your mind is made up anyway. On the other hand, read on and maybe you will see points that you see as I do and things that
Break down
No pun intended - if you are a fan of Wes Anderson ... I do wonder why you would read any reviews, because your mind is made up anyway. On the other hand, read on and maybe you will see points that you see as I do and things that you feel differently about.
But of course this is not just about fans of Wes - although if you actually don't like his other movies .. I highly doubt you will find anything redeeming here. The movie is pulling away the fourth wall - from the start it tells you what it will show you. Of course even with that knowledge, there is much to see and much to discover. It is in the details that ... well it matters.
The movie is able to entice you ... is able to pull you in and make you part of this weird world. Explain to you how movie (or story telling to a broader degree) works, without the magic being destroyed ... it actually might even heighten it. Add the cast to it all .. you may feel that your favorite actor (or actress) is not having enough screen time ... but it is because there is so many of them in here ... only the main characters really get to shine a lot ... that said, even a blink and you'll miss it Jeff Goldblum cameo is ... just amazing.

By the way it is not a secret either - you will see his name pop up right with the titles at the beginning. There is way more here though that one can comprehend or cherish and enjoy with just a one time viewing ... there is so much - and not just visually ... but on so many other levels ... if you relish in weirdness (full circle back to being a fan of Wes I reckon) ... well there is a lot get from the movie ... life is not structured (well most of it - we try to make it make sense as much as possible of course) ... movies can be ... but break apart, when things happen that no one expects either ...
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1 of 7 users found this helpful16
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10
BuzzLookJun 25, 2023
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Fire, I felt that the play inside a movie dynamic worked well and didn’t disrupt the flow, needed Bill Murray though! Expand
1 of 7 users found this helpful16
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10
SoManySaltySJW2Jun 28, 2023
exhilerating and powerful
I found incredible comfort while diving into all of the different depths and layers of this movie. There was never a dull moment. Never a self-explanatory one either. Everything could be picked up apart and analyzed,
exhilerating and powerful
I found incredible comfort while diving into all of the different depths and layers of this movie. There was never a dull moment. Never a self-explanatory one either. Everything could be picked up apart and analyzed, while it didn't necessarily have to. Every second is just as beautiful as the last, from beginning to end. In my mind this movie unfolded as a true and true metaphor for how one's inner child experiences grief (or at least wishes it could). A big interpersonal bubble in which everything seems a bit too strange to be real, but produces big questions, zero answers. Feels like a vibrantly oversaturated bandade has been placed on my heart.
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1 of 8 users found this helpful17
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10
MikeHawk1Jun 26, 2023
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Freight train freight train, going so fast. Very good movie, especially the visuals. Expand
1 of 8 users found this helpful17
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10
MaleficentoJun 28, 2023
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's like an updated version of Truman Show without Jim Carrey and directed by artsy brilliance Wes Anderson
One of the best Wes Anderson films that might be misunderstood and appreciated by others maybe even misunderstood whilst being loved! So many color palettes, charm, complex well written dialogue often or simple dialogue, loads of comedy more than other Wes gems, and pure fun entertainment for any age. This movie hit the spot no matter what and so did my mom whom has been loves Wes Anderson films although she's not a huge buff like me that craves cinema I think it's pretty reasonable that she says he's her favorite director of all time.
I love how it's about aliens, bonding and Bryan Cranston hosting everything like it's The Truman Show without being a metaphor where as in Astroid City it's more comedic and you know there's a show from the get-go. Hope others appreciate this wonderful gem!
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0 of 6 users found this helpful06
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10
braklovesmoviesJul 17, 2023
A visually and artistically beautiful, slowly-unfolding metaphor about grief, existentialism, art and the human experience. Asteroid City is not an 'easy' movie, often requiring the viewer to pay attention to small details that return laterA visually and artistically beautiful, slowly-unfolding metaphor about grief, existentialism, art and the human experience. Asteroid City is not an 'easy' movie, often requiring the viewer to pay attention to small details that return later in satisfying and emotionally compelling ways — something made easier by the film's hypnotizing cinematography.

Wes Anderson creatively makes use of multiple frame narratives in a manner rarely seen in modern cinema to tell an enchantingly beautiful story once you get to the core of it. Admittedly, it can get a little hard to follow at times, but yields good returns if you surrender your attention to this piece of art.
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0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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4
imthenoobAug 13, 2023
I wouldn't say that it is a bad movie but Asteroid City is pretty much the same old same old from Wes Anderson. Nothing more, nothing less. You're really not missing out if you skip this one.
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3
EludiumQ36Jul 26, 2023
"Asteroid City" (6/23/23, PG13, $46M boxoff, D/Wes Anderson) is a visually splendant, eye-candy film featuring high-contrasty pastel colors set in the American southwest of 1955 co-starring many familiar A and B-list names and that's about"Asteroid City" (6/23/23, PG13, $46M boxoff, D/Wes Anderson) is a visually splendant, eye-candy film featuring high-contrasty pastel colors set in the American southwest of 1955 co-starring many familiar A and B-list names and that's about all that's good to say about this film that didn't break-even at the box office and here's why... Wes has his actors engage in WAY too much dialogue and excruciating exposition with little to no action or intrigue. He directs his actors to speak in monotone with little to no facial expressions - this guy is deliberately making a boring film! Many, many reviewers give Wes a pass but why?! If a film school student made this, they'd be told to seek another career because they just don't get the FUNDAMENTALS of film making! The story, the plot, the performances are all just white rice bland, there's absolutely no entertainment value in this except for its color scheme. 3 stars only for the art/set/visual contributors. Expand
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2
rxerickJul 21, 2023
Prefacing my review I am a fan of the following Wes Anderson movies:
Isle of Dogs
The Life Aquatic Fantastic Mr. Fox Royal Tenenbaums The Grand Budapest Hotel (One of my favorites of all time) I was hesitant to see this movie in theaters and
Prefacing my review I am a fan of the following Wes Anderson movies:
Isle of Dogs
The Life Aquatic
Fantastic Mr. Fox
Royal Tenenbaums
The Grand Budapest Hotel (One of my favorites of all time)

I was hesitant to see this movie in theaters and chose to watch it at home and I hated it. The pacing of the dialogue matched Jennifer Jason Leigh's character in The Hudsucker Proxy. Not just one character, all of them. At 45 minutes I couldn't handle another second of it. No single character was endearing, interesting, or worth remembering. I don't know what else to say because if I was in the theater I would have left even sooner. I'm giving it a 2 because I was comfortable with the setting and willing to take in what happened within it. However every other aspect of the film was unbearable.
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6
DubeauJul 11, 2023
Better then, the French Dispatch. But the story was still unfocus, getting everywhere but lacking any clarity. The humour is partially there but rather weak. I think going from one perspective to another (the one in black and white), justBetter then, the French Dispatch. But the story was still unfocus, getting everywhere but lacking any clarity. The humour is partially there but rather weak. I think going from one perspective to another (the one in black and white), just broke the story so many times. It felt like the black and white reality was just filling time. I found it very long after 45 minutes. The style is always very good tho. The acting is solid, even from the children actors. The 3 girls were certainly the most funny. The music didn't do anything for me. I give it 65%. I think Wes should move back to tell a simpler and heartfelt story, rather then something cryptic with too many levels of symbolism. Expand
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9
onurcanAug 8, 2023
Another great Wes Anderson movie, maybe the most Wes Anderson movie among all, lacks cherry in the plot a tad little bit.
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8
S2P_cinephileAug 2, 2023
The very affectionate work of cinema!!

The delightfully artistic production design and appealingly pastel cinematograghy as usual from Wes Anderson's film. However, I must honestly say that this might be an beautifully odd and very
The very affectionate work of cinema!!


The delightfully artistic production design and appealingly pastel cinematograghy as usual from Wes Anderson's film. However, I must honestly say that this might be an beautifully odd and very different film I could ever expected from his post-2010 films.

First thing that comes to my mind is that his dark-comedic style and plot-driven actually leave some flaws on the smoothness of emotional relationship for each main characters. But, I somehow find its nice touch from seeing Wes digs deeper into human's loneliness by never leaving its fast pacing and his uniquely dark-comedic style, flawlessly and masterfully. The satire for political events and human connections are also never missed a beat.

The unusual narrative can sometimes confuse audiences on their first-half watching, but even so, at some point, once the film reveals its self-concept, I'm pretty sure the audiences will somehow try connecting those dots that film had left for us all along, and certainly find a beauty of the hidden message.
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7
LISOCHIKOTOSAJul 14, 2023
A lot of great talent and acting but the movie was just really boring to be honest
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3
shektSep 3, 2023
I've enjoyed Wes Anderson movies in the past. But a movie needs a good story, it's not all design. I'm sorry to say but I found this movie quite boring.
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3
MetacriticOnurAug 11, 2023
bad
[ bad ]

adjective, worse, worst;(Slang) bad·der, bad·dest for 36.
not good in any manner or degree.
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8
xaviersanchez04Jul 1, 2023
Wes Anderson é um dos meus diretores favoritos e fico feliz que ele sempre entrega filmes de qualidade como esse!
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7
RohmoAug 30, 2023
I connected with the sense of isolation and loneliness. Felt the same issue with French Dispatch where the structure works against it at times...
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7
SayreTXSep 10, 2023
No one does quirky as well as Wes Anderson, so this film is worth a watch if you're into that kind of thing. However, it's not one of his best films and fails to deliver its message due to a weak script and competing stories-within-stories.
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