Moonrise Kingdom

After Wes Anderson’s “Fantastic Mr. Fox” came out in 2009, his next film is based on his experience as a Boy Scout growing up in Texas and wanted to make a story about young love set in The 60s. What I’m referring to is the premise from “Moonrise Kingdom.”

Moonrise Kingdom was released in 2012. (same year The Perks Of Being A Wallflower came out) It received universal acclaim from critics and movie goers alike. In addition to positive reception, the film made enough money at the box office. Moonrise Kingdom was nominated for “Best Original Screenplay” at The 86th Academy Awards. Quentin Tarantino ultimately took home the Oscar for “Django Unchained.” Moonrise Kingdom is also included in The Criterion Collection.

Wes’ latest film “The French Dispatch” is out in theaters. His next project titled, “Asteroid City.” So far, it is currently in post-production. Anyway, Awards Seasons is ongoing until The 94th Academy Awards air on March 2022. I’m also trying out a few movies from The Criterion Collection to get into Awards Seasons mode.

Today’s review contains no SPOILERS. I’m giving some of you a chance to see this gem.

Safe & Dangerous Qualities

Safe: The Main Cast such as Bill Murray, (one of his good luck charms besides Owen Wilson) Edward Norton, (one of my all-time favorite actors) Bruce Willis, Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton, Harvey Keitel & Jason Schwartzman all did an excellent job for their respective performances. Moonrise Kingdom was nominated for “Best Original Screenplay.” Quentin Tarantino ultimately took home the Oscar for “Django Unchained.”

Wes Anderson did an excellent job directing the film. He also co-wrote and co-produce the script. Roman Coppola (Francis Ford Coppola’s real life son)also co-wrote the script.

Fun Fact: Mac Miller (my favorite singer/rapper) mentioned Moonrise Kingdom was his favorite movie. He was a fan of Wes Anderson’s work. Rest In Peace Mac.

Humor contains visual gags, taking wacky moments seriously and a variety of eccentric characters.

Cinematography never had any technical issues throughout the whole thing.

Practical Effects were heavily involved to create Set Pieces.

Editing felt smooth from start to finish. Never had any boo boos.

Alexandre Desplat (Harry Potter And The Deathly Hollows, The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button, The Shape Of Water) orchestrated the music.

Chemistry between Sam & Suzy serves as the main highlight. Their bond moves the story forward. Their interactions are funny as heck.

Costume Designs reflect the time period set in 1965. Exact same year Robert Downey Jr. was born.

The Tone balances between serious and silliness.

A school play based on Noah’s Ark plays a big role. It’s much better than Darren Aronofsky’s film with Russell Crowe.

This is Edward Norton’s first collaboration with Wes. Ed also appeared in “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” “Isle Of Dogs” & The French Dispatch. It’s a shame Ed was a pain in the rear filming “The Incredible Hulk.” Regardless of being a male diva, he’s doing fine.

According to Wes, Moonrise Kingdom is primarily influenced by “Melody.” I’m gonna admit. I’ve never seen or heard of it. Wes was also influenced by “The 400 Blows.” Another movie I’ve never seen in my life.

Wes used to be a Boy Scout growing up in Texas. I’m also a Texan myself.

Besides Sam & Suzy, every single character is unforgettable. Especially Ed’s character Randy Ward & the Boy Scouts.

Primary Themes are Young Love, Quirkiness & Coming-Of-Age. Each one is both played for laughs and drama at the same time.

You think Moonrise Kingdom is the only Coming-Of-Age comedy-drama released in 2012? Don’t forget “The Perks Of Being A Wallflower” is another gem. “Now Is Good” with Dakota Fanning (one of my all time favorite actresses) & Jeremy Irvine also features young love as a theme.

A dog is named, Snoopy. A reference to “Peanuts.” Wes grew up watching Peanuts.

I can’t give away The Ending. You’ll have to see for yourself.

Dangerous: I couldn’t find any issues. I’m giving The Cast & Crew an Extra Point for making a flawless film as possible.

The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!

From my perspective, Moonrise Kingdom is one of Wes Anderson’s best films next to “Rushmore,” “The Royal Tenenbaums,” “The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou” & Fantastic Mr. Fox. If you’re looking forward to seeing Wes’ upcoming film Asteroid City,” I strongly recommend this gem.