Asteroid City (2023)

Set in 1955, a television show host (Bryan Cranston) introduces a new play by a famed playwright (Edward Norton) and we are privy to the behind the scenes creation of the play in B&W. Simultaneously, we see the actual finished play in color. Written and directed by Wes Anderson (GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL) and that's about all you need to know if this movie is your cup of tea. With the exception of THE DARJEELING LIMITED (which I hated), I've liked to loved the Wes Anderson movies I've seen. One of the most visually dynamic of film directors, I'm not sure what the hell the movie is actually about (a second viewing will assuredly help) but this is a feast for the eyes and a quirky sense of humor helps. Don't waste your time analyzing (at least for the first viewing), just let the film's sensations wash all over you. Influenced by Looney Tunes (most specifically the Road Runner cartoons), Adam Stockhausen's pastel production design and Robert Yeoman's eye popping cinematography are luscious. I've already read some complaints about a weak plot but if you're plot driven, this movie is not for you. The amazing ensemble cast includes Scarlett Johansson (simply terrific), Tom Hanks, Jason Schwartzman, Margot Robbie, Tilda Swinton, Steve Carell, Jeffrey Wright, Matt Dillon, Hope Davis, Hong Chau, Willem Dafoe, Adrien Brody, Lieve Schreiber, Maya Hawke, Rupert Friend and Jeff Goldblum.