The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004)

The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou

• I’ve done it. I’ve finally completed Wes Anderson’s entire filmography, including all his short films. No, I didn’t watch them in release order, but I’m glad this one was the last one I watched, because of how amazing it is. Upon completing this film, and having ranked every single one of King Wes’s movies perfect, I can boldly say that he is the greatest director to ever leave and I’m dying on that hill. I don’t care if you agree or disagree, it’s pure fact. Anyways, this movie is ridiculously good, and though one of my least favorites of his collection, I still really, really loved it. The story was very well written, exciting, sentimental, and in a weird way, it teaches a good lesson about love and adventure. I love how it can take such a simple task such as hunting down a shark, and stretching it out to include so much passion and art. The characters, even the sometimes unbearable ones, all add something special to the movie, and I loved them all. The acting wasn’t anything phenomenal, but I loved some of the dry line deliveries that make this movie hilarious. The costumes were just spectacular, even though most of the time they were just simple pieces of clothing. The setting was nice, with great scenery and beautiful imagery. The cinematography was a little light compared to some of Wes’s other movies, but still gorgeous. The sets and props were also fantastic and well built. The eight foot puppet leopard shark at the end was so cool, and I’m amazed by how awesome it turns out in the end. Overall, this movie was funny, but also provides great drama, and plenty of adventure. I’d definitely recommend it to all comedy/action fans. This film is officially Berry Approved, so go watch it now!