BrianSez's Review

Summary - Great 4.0

Am I allowed to use the word ‘cute’ in a movie review? That’s how I felt. As Wick alluded to in another review, this was a highly stylized form of cute. Well, cute, quirky, and surreal. Moonrise Kingdom ended up being a fascinating accounting of a young runaway romance amid a wacky community that focuses on childhood and family, and a 50’s based – almost Norman Rockwellian view on life – but with dry comedic twists. A place filled with actors that fit so well in to a wacky community, you won’t even think twice about it. This well picked cast each have key roles, both major or minor, that weaves one of the most surreal childhood love stories you’ll likely to every see again Extremely entertaining.

Acting - Great 4.0

As mentioned above, this was a very well picked cast. Most of them are worthy of leading roles, yet in Moonrise Kingdom – it was clearly a team. Using the word ‘lead actor’ wouldn’t really fit here. Some greats like Bruce Willis and Bill Murray (to a lesser extent) almost took a downplayed supportive role – yet all key to the story. A quick breakdown:

Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward were certainly paired well as Sam and Suzie. Their well done off-kilter geek demeanors portrayed some great acting talent.

Bruce Willis – Subdued but instrumental to the the team of interesting key characters

Bill Murray – Great as a quirky dad – yet like Bruce, also somehow more supportive than star

Frances McDormand – I’m tired of saying this, but she too was more supportive than star – but fit in oh so well with Bruce and Bill in a very odd triangle.

Ed Norton fits in remarkably well as the cig smoking scoutmaster. Both boyish and wise.

Others that I really enjoyed seeing: Jason Schwartzman, Bob Balaban, Harvy Keitel, and Tilda Swenson

Film - Great 4.0

Edge - Tame 1.5

Reality - Surreal 2.1

1 Comment

• Wick Feb 16, 2013 12:39PM

  Regarding BrianSez’s Review
  Happy you came to a similar conclusion as me, Bri. Odd but cute and ultimately great.

• Feed
• Movies
• ViewLists
• NewOnDemand