Noah Baumbach

B (Good).

I went in expecting a comedy, and was disappointed by how underwhelming the humor was. I guess if you go in expecting a whimsical drama, it might seem better. I mean, it's a good movie, but it's not mind-blowing.

(Dec. 2023)

1992

I did not have high hopes for this movie when it was first announced since I've always found Anderson to be a very hit and miss filmmaker. I was happy to find that Fantastic Mr. Fox is one of the hits, although I think it tries a little too hard to be quirky and clever. The stop-motion animation and color palette give the film a distinctive look, and the voice talent is top-notch. It's not quite as good as the book, but it's an adaptation that does get it right.

A deep-sea filmmaker hunts a shark that sounds made up.

2.5/4 (Okay)

I last saw it when it first came out, and I really hoped I would like it better this time around, with lowered expectations. It has so many elements that I like - the design, the soundtrack, the cast, the whimsey - but the story and characters just don't work.