Wes Anderson's latest film was met with disappointing reception from many critics, fans and indifferent viewers. The feedback that I'd heard was so lukewarm that all my anticipation kept me away from the theater. I shouldn't have avoided it so; I knew it wouldn't impress me too much on the first try. Afterall, I barely appreciated The Royal Tenenbaums at my first viewing.
I can finally agree that Life Aquatic is not great. But, I don't think it is supposed to be. Intentionally or not, the film is acceptable as an exercise. I enjoyed thinking of it as not so much a Wes Anderson film but one directed by Max Fischer, the fictional character from Anderson's Rushmore. In that picture, Max directs ambitious, but awkwardly elaborate stageplays. This is not unlike this film with its cheesy action and its straight-on theatrical direction. Additionally, Max was interested in a book by Jacques Cousteau, an obvious inspiration for Bill Murray's titular character.
Unfortunately, in Rushmore, the surprisingly prodigious works were hilarious because of who produced them more than for their campiness. Life Aquatic doesn't get that pleasure unless you make yourself conscious of this theory that Max is older and now making films. Luckily, I started out bored and my wandering mind came up with the idea.
Article comments
1 - Chris Beaumont
I did not care for this much when I saw it in the theater. I actually bought the 2 disk CC release thinking that I may enjoy it again upon another viewing. Plus it has complete David Bowie songs in Portuguese!
2 - -E
Oh, I completely loved Life Aquatic! I saw it in the theater three times :) But then I loved Bottle Rocket, Rushmore and The Royal Tenenbaums too. That sort of humor is so utterly and completely up my alley.
3 - Chris Beaumont
I liked Bottle Rocket, was lukewarm to Rushmore, and Have not seen Tenenbaum's yet...
4 - Nicholas
Life Qauatic was one of my favorite movies ever. I would even call it inspirational. Of course, I'm a real Wes Anderson fan. ;)