Asteroid City
★★★★
As an avid Wes Anderson fan, I was not prepared for the emotional depths that he was willing to go to with Asteroid City. Don't worry, his signature thumb prints are all over this film. He once again stuns with the production design, camera movements and overall quirkiness. But this was the first time that I wanted to watch one of his films for the second time to better understand his themes, in a good way. More often than not, I have revisited his films to receive comfort in the colors and the characters that he also seems to provide, but this time audiences will be challenged to look deeper into his intentions.
Asteroid City is full of dread, angst and creative blocks, yet is wrapped in the welcoming of a '50s postcard. He is able to take a science fiction fixation from the past and combine it with the unease that has been stirring in our souls since the pandemic to produce a tale that reinforces the importance of relational support to get us through tough times. It'll be hard for a lot of people to grasp Asteroid City's concept despite it's warmth, especially from the all-star cast. Anderson messes with our perceptions of storytelling, yet you'll find yourself grinning and laughing even through unsettling moments.
I'm still grappling with how I feel about this film. I consider myself a smart person, but I'm not afraid to admit that this one was a little above my head. But I really liked that about this film and I like being challenged. One of my favorite directors who has a signature style that is undoubtedly his, surprised me. And I wouldn't be shocked that after a second viewing, that I would rate this movie higher knowing now what to expect.
