ASTEROID CITY REVIEW

 *MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS*

Since the release of his Oscar winning film, The Grand Budapest Hotel, almost a decade ago, Wes Anderson has quickly become one of my favourite filmmakers, with The Royal Tenenbaums and Moonrise Kingdom standing out as two of his best. However, his previous film, The French Dispatch, received a mixed response from critics, with praise going towards Anderson’s unique and visionary filmmaking style, however, they were underwhelmed by a lack of narrative. Although I enjoyed The French Dispatch, I didn’t think it represented Anderson at his best. Despite this, I was still excited for his latest film, Asteroid City, which, following its premiere at Cannes Film Festival in May, received a more positive response, however, is it an improvement over The French Dispatch?


Set in a fictional American desert town circa 1955, the itinerary of a Junior Stargazer/Space Cadet convention (organised to bring together students and parents from across the country for fellowship and scholarly competition) is spectacularly disrupted by world-changing events.
 

Asteroid City refers to a play, written by Conrad Earp (Edward Norton), and is depicted in widescreen and stylised colour, while the events of the television special, which is presented by a TV host (Bryan Cranston) and includes a dramatised re-enactment of the first staging of the play, are shown in black-and-white Academy ratio. While this may sound a little confusing at first, this framing device quickly becomes clear, with each scene divided into acts. The film cuts between the play and behind the scenes interactions with Earp and the ensemble cast of his play. 

Asteroid City features many of the traits associated with Anderson’s films including a star studded cast playing eccentric and interesting characters, bright and colourful visuals and a lighthearted and comedic tone, making for a thoroughly entertaining watch for the majority of its 105 minute runtime. Asteroid City is definitely a film that will appeal more to those who are a fan of Anderson’s previous films as they’ll know what to expect. Those hoping for a laugh out loud comedy may be disappointed with what Anderson has created with Asteroid City as the humorous  moments are more subtle and come from witty lines of dialogue said by the characters.

Like most of Anderson’s previous films, Asteroid City features an impressive ensemble cast, including Jason Schwartzman, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks, Edward Norton, Adrien Brody, Bryan Cranston, Steve Carel, Tilda Swinton and Jeffrey Wright. Although most of the cast have limited screen time, they still leave a lasting impression with their appearance as amusing and eccentric characters. The standout is Schwartzman who has frequently worked with Anderson since appearing in his first film, Rushmore, in 1998. In Asteroid City, Schwartzman plays actor Jones Hall whose character in the play is Auggie Steenbeck, a war photographer and father to teenager Woodrow (Jake Ryan). It’s clear that Schwartzman and Anderson have a great working relationship with the former appearing in seven of the latter’s films, including Asteroid City. Johansson is equally as impressive as Jones’ co-star, Mercedes Ford, who plays Midge Campbell. The interactions between Auggie and Midge is where Asteroid City is at its most interesting as both characters are fascinating individuals and share a connection. There’s even a surprise appearance from a famous actress who shares a scene with Schwartzman late in the film.

What I’ve always liked about Anderson’s films is that they tell original stories and explore interesting themes through his unique vision. This is still the case with Asteroid City. Although judging from the trailer, it may come across as a quirky comedy, Anderson’s screenplay explores themes of grief and, following a close encounter with an extra terrestrial, the meaning of life and what exists in outer space. The various characters also begin to question the intentions of the extra terrestrial, leading to the deserted Asteroid City going into isolation. Grief is also explored through Auggie and his family who have to come to terms with the recent death of his wife and mother of his children. Anderson succeeds in exploring this theme effectively and with his trademark sense of humour, with Auggie’s three young daughters stealing every scene they appear in as they come to terms with the death of their mother in a amusing way.

Asteroid City is definitely a film that is easier to admire for its originality, bright and vivid visuals and telling an interesting story filled with eccentric characters that are brought to life by the talented ensemble cast. Although I didn’t love it on my first watch, I can imagine myself enjoying it more on future rewatches as I’ll know what to expect and be able to enjoy what Wes Anderson has created with his latest film.

8/10