Wes Anderson’s highly anticipated eleventh film, “Asteroid City,” was recently screened in the official selection at the 76th Cannes Film Festival and is set to hit screens this Wednesday, June 21. After exploring Japan in “Isle of Dogs” (2018) and France in “The French Dispatch” (2021), the director now takes the plot of his new feature film to the United States.
Set in 1955 in Asteroid City, Arizona, a city known for its meteorite crater and nuclear tests, the film revolves around the Junior Stargazer convention. The convention honors the scientific work of teenagers who have come to present their inventions. However, the city is thrown into quarantine when an alien pays a visit.
Upon its presentation in the official selection at Cannes, “Asteroid City” received a mixed reception. Some viewers questioned whether the film was a caricature of Anderson’s signature style or the ultimate masterpiece of the Texas director. The film retains the stylistic characteristics that have made Anderson famous, such as controlled symmetry, pastel colors, and the use of models. However, it also complicates the narration, taking the risk of potentially losing some viewers along the way.
“Asteroid City” is a mise en abyme, showcasing the creation of a theatrical work. Behind-the-scenes scenes are filmed in black and white, while the story taken from the play is filmed in color. Anderson explained that this choice reflects his desire to honor both the golden age of Broadway and cinema in Cinemascope and color. The film also references 1950s American culture, including country music and the neo-western genre.
From a formal perspective, “Asteroid City” is visually stunning. Anderson’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in the sets, costumes, and soundtrack. The film was shot on film, with the image calibrated to the nearest millimeter. Anderson’s mastery of his distinctive style immerses viewers in the imaginary city located in the middle of the desert. The alien scene is particularly breathtaking and worth the watch.
One of Anderson’s strengths
How does Wes Anderson’s “Asteroid City” combine his signature stylistic traits with elements of 1950s American culture?
Wes Anderson’s highly anticipated eleventh film, “Asteroid City,” recently made its debut at the 76th Cannes Film Festival and is set to be released on June 21. After exploring Japan in “Isle of Dogs” (2018) and France in “The French Dispatch” (2021), Anderson now brings his signature style to the United States, specifically to 1955 Asteroid City, Arizona.
The film centers around the Junior Stargazer convention, a gathering that celebrates the scientific achievements of teenagers presenting their inventions. However, the city is unexpectedly placed under quarantine when an alien pays a visit. This unique premise sets the stage for a captivating story that combines Anderson’s whimsicality with elements of 1950s American culture.
“Asteroid City” has garnered a mixed reception since its presentation at Cannes. Some viewers question whether the film is a caricature of Anderson’s distinctive style or a masterful work of art by the Texas director. The film showcases Anderson’s signature traits, such as controlled symmetry, pastel colors, and the use of meticulously crafted models. However, it also introduces a more complex narrative structure, which may challenge some viewers along the way.
Visually, “Asteroid City” is a stunning masterpiece. Anderson’s meticulous attention to detail is apparent in the sets, costumes, and soundtrack. Shot on film, the imagery is calibrated to the nearest millimeter, ensuring an immersive experience for audiences. The film transports viewers to the imaginary city located in the middle of the desert, with the alien scene being particularly breathtaking and worth watching.
“Asteroid City” is not just a film but a meta-narrative experience. It serves as a mise en abyme, showcasing the creation of a theatrical work. Behind-the-scenes scenes are presented in black and white, while the story adapted from the play is depicted in color, symbolizing Anderson’s homage to both the golden age of Broadway and the cinema of the 1950s. The film also incorporates references to 1950s American culture, including country music and the neo-western genre.
In summary, Wes Anderson’s “Asteroid City” promises to be another visually captivating and narratively intriguing addition to his filmography. Its exploration of the Junior Stargazer convention and the unexpected visitation of an alien sets the stage for a unique and exciting story. While the film received mixed reviews, its meticulous attention to detail and Anderson’s distinctive style are sure to engage audiences. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the enchanting world of “Asteroid City” when it hits screens on June 21.
“Wes Anderson effortlessly sets a quirky and visually stunning stage in ‘Asteroid City,’ leaving critics divided over its whimsical narrative. Eagerly looking forward to experience Anderson’s unique cinematic world once again!”
“Wes Anderson’s ‘Asteroid City’ creates a delightful divide among critics at Cannes, leaving audiences intrigued and eager to experience his unique vision once again.”