Recommendation: The Grand Budapest Hotel
As this is my first film recommendation, I must preface this post by explaining a little about my taste when it comes to film. I rate based upon three main criteria: cinematography, story and subject.
Cinematography—I wrap most everything visual into cinematography. There are amazing effects nowadays and directors are really able to express a lot through their presentations without a word being spoken. Some films are absolutely stunning on this level. Avatar comes to mind when I say this. It looked amazing and there were lots of interesting details sprinkled throughout the film, but the story suffered. For some films, cinematography is not quite as important, but it certainly adds to the overall mood of the piece.
Story—I say story because I am considering it in its entirety and not just one piece of it. Some plots are weak, but the writing is insanely clever. Other times, there is an amazing plot, but pitiful dialogue. There are characters that are so well developed, you almost feel as if you have met them. Others are so one-note, you forget their names. I take all of this into consideration after watching a film.
Subject—Given my absolute love of animated film, I am probably the best example of a person who knows when I am not the intended audience. Does that stop me from seeing a film? No. This part of my review process is not based upon the film itself, but more who the film is for. A lot of people criticize films that are not marketed at them, which I find unfair. There are many films that are meant for a different culture, gender, political affiliation or religion.
You’ll find that I will give a ★ if I believe the film has done a very great job of capturing an aspect (if not, there will be a ☆ instead). I also have two additional stars for experience and memory. When it comes to watching a movie in an actual theater, there is an experience behind it. Some movies drag out and that can lower your appreciation of it. Other movies are so forgettable you can’t even remember the main character after an hour or so. That would make a very great movie five stars total.
Image via grandbudapesthotel.com
Now to the subject at hand, Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel. One of my professors once described Gary Baseman as an illustrator you either love or hate, no middle ground involved. To some extent, I believe that Wes Anderson has that effect on people. If you really dislike his style, chances are, you will never like his movies. I am not a Wes Anderson groupie. I have not seen all of his movies, but the ones I have seen have been very enjoyable. The Grand Budapest Hotel is no exception.
To keep spoilers to a minimum (since I am recommending you see this while it is still in theaters), I will not get too into the story, but I will say it was much darker than I expected. However, there were so many clever exchanges and humorous scenes that it managed to take the edge off. I feel that what Wes Anderson did best was make me long to visit a hotel like The Grand Budapest during its heyday. If you have been on the fence about whether to see this one or not, I would definitely try to catch it while it’s still in theaters.
★★★★☆