Moonrise Kingdom - 4 out of 5 stars
Critics often claim that many filmmakers have their own “style” and certain directors’ movies are instantly identifiable – which, by and large, is hogwash. No question, the likes of Woody Allen, Clint Eastwood and Martin Scorsese put a unique stamp and calling card on their pictures, but such names are first-class company. In any case, Wes Anderson is one of those rare creators whose on-screen labor is clearly his own. And this time, he turns a boy-meets-girl tale on its head – replete with beguiling split-screen bits, saturated colors and glorious set pieces.
It helps when you’re aided by a half-dozen veteran talents who grasp the script, own the dialogue and don’t feel any need to steal scenes: Bill Murray, Edward Norton, Frances McDormand, Bruce Willis, Harvey Keitel and peerless Tilda Swinton (an Oscar winner five years ago for Michael Clayton). And the two spotlighted youths appear wise beyond their years. Although a mighty storm swirls around the New England campsites, circa 1960s, the participants couldn’t be calmer or smoother.
No surprise this Kingdom – a strange but brilliant mosaic – stands tall atop Anderson’s considerable body of work that ranges from cool if overpraised (Rushmore), headstrong (The Royal Tenenbaums) and undervalued (The Darjeeling Limited).
Ted - 2 1/2 out of 5 stars
The latest box-office champion is a stuffed animal with legs – and it’s a riot, with plenty of laughs to be found, thanks to Seth MacFarlane’s clever animatronics teddy bear.The voice-over narration proves too convenient and confident, as the entire premise of Ted coming to life is glossed over with “Everyone knows that a young boy’s wish is the most powerful.” (Is that so?)
Along with the chatty recitation, there’s too much Flash Gordon and Sam J. Jones. Yes, I’m familiar with MacFarlane’s fondness for social commentary and celebrity references. That doesn’t excuse his excessive reliance on the dashing 1980s icon, as if deliberately trying to stretch this foul-mouthed farce to two hours. Among the stellar photography, the film’s most gorgeous shot also happens to occur at its saddest moment. What also can’t be denied are the tasty if salty one-liners, courtesy of MacFarlane in the primary role. The predictable climax is capped off with an undeniably hilarious false alarm.
People Like Us - 3 out of 5 stars
Chris Pine and Elizabeth Banks co-star as estranged siblings; their characters just don’t know it. The brother becomes aware of it before the sister, and a considerable financial windfall is involved. As is always the case with money, complications ensue but they can’t be considered unique: He is in debt, while she has a troubled, young mouth to feed.Early on, the camerawork is of the in-your-face variety, such that viewers who wish to count actors’ wrinkles and blemishes have ample opportunity. But soon director and co-writer Alex Kurtzman gives his cast the space to breathe and – in turn – the narrative finds its stride, at an enjoyable if intense pace. Only the seemingly endless ending drags toward the finish line.
The vital though often marginalized player is Olivia Wilde (the wild card, if you will); her deadpan quips ring true without fail.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel - 4 out of 5 stars
This hidden diamond was showing in Santa Barbara for weeks before trickling into Buellton and beyond. A group of retirees and lost souls collide abroad, as one visitor’s culture shock is another’s treasure. Despite its bulky title, it’s worth the journey – from its breathtaking images (e.g. a heron taking flight in slow-motion while bathed in golden light) to entrenching us among the palpable sights, sounds and smells of India. Only the young Dev Patel, as the titular inn’s hyper overseer, is a turn-off: his overzealous approach seems made to throw the narrative off-balance.The real joy and beauty, however, stems from its cast of distinguished British veterans, including Judi Dench, Tom Wilkinson, Bill Nighy and eternal Maggie Smith. Each of those classy professionals deserves a little Oscar.