In college I saw this movie, and for some reason it has stuck with me as one of my favorites. I was really excited to watch it again to see just how keen my taste was back in those days.
Max Fischer (Jason Schwartzman), a sophomore at upscale Rushmore Academy and the president and founder of a plethora school clubs, sees his world turn upside-down when he's smitten with widowed first-grade teacher Rosemary Cross (Olivia Williams).
This is a quirky film. If you have seen a Wes Anderson movie before, you know what I am talking about. Dry wit, slow and wide angle visuals, musical plot devices, it's all here. And I love it.
Anderson truly knows how to tell a story by showing. There are lots of hints to personality, easter eggs hidden in the set, props and costumes that make you feel in on the joke. And of course, there are a couple slow-mo musical montages. What's not to love?
Characters seem to face each other head-on saying exactly what they think and feel. Who does that? Can you imagine if this is how everyone lived their lives? Actually talking about things directly? Heaven.
I can not finish talking about this movie without talking about theatre. One of Max's incredible talents is that of a playwright. He puts on the elaborate plays with surprising large audiences that, for me, turn into the highlight of the film. The sets are intricate and ridiculous, the last one containing a helicopter and tons of pyrotechnics. Check out the intro to one of his shows, "Heaven and Hell":
"Also, You'll find a pair of safety glasses and some ear plugs underneath your seats. Please feel free to use them." Yes.
All in all, one should at least be familiar with Wes Anderson. With good story telling, intelligent visuals and interesting characters, Anderson is one of my absolute favorites.
Another one to check out would be The Royal Tenenbaums. Classic.
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